As the NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the rumors surrounding team strategies are beginning to intensify. While the top of the draft order seems to be stabilizing, history tells us that surprises are often in store when the picks start rolling in.
One team that could be in for a big shake-up is the San Francisco 49ers.
Sitting at the No. 11 pick, the 49ers, led by head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, could make a bold move up the board if the right player unexpectedly slips.
One scenario that could prompt a major shift in San Francisco’s plans involves the New York Giants’ potential selection of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders at No. 3.
Interestingly, ESPN’s Field Yates outlined the potential ripple effect that selection could cause.
“Here is a scenario to consider: If Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders goes third overall to the Giants, the chain reaction would likely include the Patriots taking Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter or Colorado receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter,” Yates stated.
“That means the top two offensive tackles – LSU’s Will Campbell and Missouri’s Armand Membou – could reach the eighth pick of the draft.
“Should that be the case, would San Francisco – with its major offensive line need – consider leapfrogging the Bears at No. 10 to draft one of them? The 49ers have a lot of holes to fill throughout the draft, but they also have 11 picks to work with – tied for the most.”
The Bears, who also have a need at tackle, could instead choose to bolster their defense. But if the 49ers believe Chicago is leaning towards a tackle, they could be motivated to move up a few spots.
However, San Francisco’s chances of moving up depend on the Giants’ choice.
If Big Blue passes on Sanders – which is very possible – and opts for either Carter or Hunter, the Patriots at No. 4 may be more inclined to select the top remaining offensive tackle.
If Campbell and Membou are both off the board by then, the 49ers might be left with few options for trading up.
At the same time, the 49ers have a solid fallback option at No. 11.
If no trades materialize, they could target Michigan cornerback Will Johnson, should he still be available, or look to add depth to their defensive line.
With 11 picks in this year’s draft – tied for the most of any team – San Francisco is in a prime position to make significant moves, whether it be through trades or solid selections to fill key roster spots.
What are your thoughts on the speculation that the Niners could be trading up in the draft???
