San Francisco 49ers Gear Up for the 2024 NFL Draft with a Wealth of Picks
As the NFL Draft approaches, the San Francisco 49ers are poised to make a significant impact with an impressive collection of 11 selections. The draft, which is slated to take place from April 25 to April 27, 2024, offers the 49ers a chance to bolster their roster and address key positions.
Compensatory Picks Bolstering the Niners' Arsenal
The 49ers' draft strategy will be augmented by up to four compensatory picks, awarded for net losses incurred during the previous year's free-agent signing period. Although the team could have received an additional pick following the loss of Mike McGlinchey, this was negated when they acquired Javon Hargrave.
In addition to their own first four rounds of picks, the 49ers have gained an extra fourth-round selection courtesy of a trade that sent Trey Lance to the Dallas Cowboys. The exact positioning of the Niners' first-round pick remains undetermined, ranging from No. 29 to 32 overall, contingent on the outcome of their NFC Championship game against the Detroit Lions.
High-profile departures such as Jimmy Garoppolo's move to the Las Vegas Raiders are projected to yield a third-round compensatory pick. Similarly, Samson Ebukam's transition to the Indianapolis Colts is anticipated to bring in a fifth-round selection. Moreover, the exits of Jimmie Ward to the Houston Texans and Azeez Al-Shaair to the Tennessee Titans are expected to result in two sixth-round picks.
The 49ers also made a special request for a compensatory pick at the NFL trading deadline, seeking compensation for the losses of DeMeco Ryans and Ran Carthon. Unfortunately, the 49ers will not have their original fifth and sixth-round picks due to trades; the fifth was exchanged for Christian McCaffrey, while the sixth, along with a seventh-round pick, was dealt to Denver for Randy Gregory.
Identifying Team Needs
The 49ers are keenly aware of their need to reinforce the cornerback position, which stands out as a priority. Additionally, there is an intention to recruit experienced players to solidify the right side of the offensive line. Depth in the running back corps is another area the team is looking to enhance through the upcoming draft.
Prospective Talent on the 49ers' Radar
Kamari Lassiter emerges as a potential candidate for the cornerback role, bringing fresh talent to the secondary. On the offensive front, prospects like Layden Robinson and Xavier Truss are being considered to provide much-needed support. Christian Jones is also in the mix as a possible mid-round pick for tackle positions.
When it comes to invigorating the running back room, the 49ers are evaluating several powerful downhill runners. Among them are Kendall Milton, Cody Schrader, and Carson Steele, all of whom could add a robust dynamic to the ground game. For more versatility in the backfield, Dylan Laube, Trey Benson, and Bucky Irving stand out as viable options beyond the first round.
With a strategic approach to the 2024 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers are well-positioned to strengthen their squad across various positions. The abundance of draft capital at their disposal provides ample opportunity to address needs and secure the future of the franchise. As the draft nears, the anticipation builds for how the 49ers will utilize their picks to shape the team for the upcoming season and beyond.