With the draft approaching, we ignore projections and identify the dream scenario for each team in a series we call The Perfect Draft.Like their neighbors across the bay, the San Francisco 49ers are mired in a string of futility, failing to make the playoffs since the 2002 season. Thanks to a strong finish in 2008 and what is, perhaps, the weakest division in the NFL, there should be some optimism in San Francisco heading into 2009. What do the 49ers need to return to glory?
The Ideal Pick
Matthew Stafford. While I'm still not entirely sold on the idea of the 49ers selecting a quarterback with a top-10 pick just four years after swinging and missing with Alex Smith, they would probably be wise to jump on Stafford should the Lions pass on him with the No. 1 overall pick, beginning a slide as he waits in the "Aaron Rodgers memorial green room."
The 49ers actually hosted Stafford on a pre-draft visit this week because, well, the team is losing faith in Smith, the former No. 1 overall pick. The visit also raised a few eyebrows because of the way Stafford reportedly reacted to some of the questioning done by the 49ers at the combine. From Kevin Lynch of the San Francisco Chronicle:
Having Stafford come in is awkward. Stafford said a 49ers psychologist pressed him about his parents divorce and Stafford said it was strange compared to other teams who asked him to draw plays. One report said Stafford shot back then asked the psychologist how much she made. Now Stafford is coming in for more questions and interviews? It's also awkward from Tom Condon's point of view. The NFL agent to the quarterbacks represents Stafford AND Alex Smith.While awkward, it shouldn't be enough to prevent the 49ers from making the pick if Stafford is available. While Shaun Hill looks to be a solid NFL quarterback, and has played extremely well in his limited playing time the past two seasons -- honestly, he should have been the starter from day one in 2008 -- he just doesn't seem like the type of franchise quarterback a team needs to be a serious contender in the NFL.
Other Needs
Offensive line, offensive line, offensive line. The 49ers signed free agent Marvel Smith this offseason, and while he was once a great player, back injuries have derailed his previously-stellar career. Alabama's Andre Smith should be available when the 49ers are on the clock at No. 10, and the presence of (Marvel) Smith should not stop them from selecting the massive -- yet somewhat questionable -- offensive tackle.
The 49ers could also use somebody on the defensive side of the ball to get at the quarterback, as they recorded 30 sacks in 2008, 20th in the NFL. Penn State's Aaron Maybin could be an option, as could Florida State's Everette Brown, though, No. 10 might be a bit high for Brown.
