Now that the NFL season is officially over, we are fully in the offseason swing.
While the NFL draft (which will be held May 8-10) will dominate the offseason chatter, we are just getting started. Teams are busy studying college prospects and it will ramp up during the NFL Combine later this month.
Below is a look at the position where the San Francisco 49ers might look at early in the draft:
Receivers
Potential top prospects: Sammy Watkins (Clemson), Mike Evans (Texas A&M), Marqise Lee (USC), Kelvin Benjamin (Florida State),Allen Robinson (Penn State),
What to expect: This is the 49ers’ biggest need. I expect the team to consider using their first pick on a receiver and they could even consider trading up from No. 30 to fill the spot.
Cornerbacks
Potential top prospects: Darqueze Dennard (Michigan State), Justin Gilbert (Oklahoma State), Jason Verrett (TCU), Marcus Roberson (Florida).
What to expect: The 49ers have some free agents at the position and they could develop a young corner. I expect them to spend an early pick here.
Center
Potential top prospects: Travis Swanson (Arkansas), Bryan Stork (Florida State), Weston Richburg (Colorado Sate).
What to expect: Starter Jonathan Goodwin is 35 and a free agent. The 49ers might try to find his replacement even if he is brought back on a short-term deal.