A daily compilation of 49ers news from around the net. Thursday, March 21st, 2019 edition.
Good morning folks, and a happy Thursday to you. The news from yesterday is that the 49ers brass met with Nick Bosa, following a meeting with Quinnen Williams the day prior. This points to due diligence more than anything, but it’s still exciting as a fan to consider that Bosa may be a reality come late April. Certainly, it’s not out of the realm of possibility to imagine that the team might, in fact, look to add Bosa in the upcoming draft, despite the blockbuster trade for Dee Ford.
The idea has been floating around that the Ford trade effectively precludes the drafting of Bosa, because due to an absurd allocation of resources for one position that the two would be fighting over. Now, I could be completely wrong here, but there’s no guarantee that Ford is slated to play LEO exclusively. Although it’s fairly well-documented that Ford isn’t an elite run defender, is it possible that he’s begin his tenure with the 49ers as a strong side linebacker?
Before we continue, I know what you’re thinking, because I’m thinking it too – nobody gives a SAM $17.5 million annually.
However, adding Bosa to a front seven that already includes Ford and DeForest Buckner would generate an obscene amount of pressure from all sides – something which I doubt any 49er fan would argue against – wholeheartedly, at least. This line of thought brings up an uncomfortable eventuality. Adding Bosa to this defense would effectively make either Solomon Thomas or Arik Armstead a further odd man out, as one of them would likely cease to see pass-rush downs entirely.
Armstead has been a steady, if unspectacular, contributor, and is playing this upcoming season on a fifth year option. Thomas, on the other hand, has been something of a let down, but has flashed his upside when utilized properly. Should Bosa be in John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan’s plans, do you foresee one of these two players being moved during the draft, a la Trent Brown? Would the 49ers hold on to Armstead through his option year and hope for a solid comp pick?
On the other hand, it would make sense to question the value that could be had in trade for the #2 pick. With Dwayne Haskins’ rise up the draft boards, the 49ers might find a value that outweighs the prospect of drafting Bosa. The Raiders and Giants both own multiple first round picks, and have questions surrounding their future at QB. Should desperation rear it’s ugly head, would the 49ers be justified in trading away their shot at Bosa for a handful of picks?
Man, this is stressful stuff.
WR remains a top priority | Branch, SF Chronicle
49ers met with Nick Bosa | Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area | KNBR Staff | Biderman, Sac Bee | Madson, Ninerswire
Busy free agency to help draft flexibility | Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area
Cap status after free agency frenzy | Almquist, KNBR
Is Jimmie Ward the answer at FS? | Madson, Ninerswire
Haskins’ rising draft stock a blessing for 49ers | Madson, Ninerswire
About the Author: Insidethe49
