32 in 32: Who Will the 49ers Draft?

We are already on day 7 of the 32 in 32 series. Man how time flies.  Today we are going to examine the San Francisco 49ers.  I have to repeat sports writers all over the country and say that the 49ers are the most talented bad team in the recent history of the NFL.  This is a team with the best linebacker in football, a All-Pro running back, two young talented receivers, and a one of the best tight ends in the game today.  So why can’t the 49ers seem to get it together?

There is one huge flaw with this team, and that is the Quarterback position.  The team’s second flaw in the defensive backfield is nothing compared to what they have gone through since selecting Alex Smith #1 overall in the 2005 draft.

With everything that Smith has gone through in his career, from Mike Nolan all the way to Mike Singletary I have to remind people of this: he is still only 26 years old.  He has the talent and still has time to get it together.  But will the 49ers replace him if they can?

Here are the most likely draft scenarios for the 49ers:

1. Cameron Jordan DE California

You may have not heard of him yet, but come draft day Cameron Jordan is going to be a name you will hear called in the top ten.  Jordan started the year off the radar but quickly put together an impressive season at Cal to propel him to the top of the boards.

Jordan has the size to play on the line in the pros and remain an active run stopper.  Putting a player like that in front of Patrick Willis opens him up to do a lot more, and could unlock the conundrum that is Manny Lawson.

2. Robert Quinn DE/OLB UNC

Mentioning Manny Lawson, here is your replacement in this scenario.  If the 49ers go in this direction they would probably look to have Robert Quinn replace Manny Lawson at the outside linebacker spot. As I said before, Quinn is one of the most experienced pass rushers in this draft and if he would have been allowed to play last season he could easily be the #2 pick in this draft.

3. Blaine Gabbert QB Missouri

Everything right now is looking that Alex Smith will make it another year as the 49ers Quarterback.  However, if the team has a rash change of heart they could easily look to sure up the position with the #7 overall selection.  At this point in the draft they might even have their pick of Cam Newton, Blaine Gabbert, and Jake Locker.

If they like a quarterback enough you could see them drafted here, though it is currently highly unlikely they get a passer in round one (more likely round 2 and beyond) it could very well happen.  It is more likely that Jim Harbaugh grits his teeth and hopes he has a shot at his college quarterback Andrew Luck next year.

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