2016 NFL Draft: 5 Bold Predictions for the San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco Passes on a Quarterback with the First Pick

Wide speculation would lead one to believe the 49ers will take a quarterback with their first pick in the draft.

After all, it’s what the NFL draft analysts over at CBS Sports have been mocking — selections boiling down to Cal’s Jared Goff or North Dakota State’s Carson Wentz. And the 49ers have some clear needs here with the ongoing dilemma surrounding embattled quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

But what if San Francisco doesn’t want to use its first pick on a signal-caller?

It’s not too far-fetched to assume this happens. Remember, the 49ers have pressing needs at nearly every position on their roster. The offensive line, pass-rushing crop, inside linebacker position, wide receiver and cornerback positions could all be listed as a No. 1 priority as well.

So the key here is evaluating the level of talent and the value at which the Niners will draft. If general manager Trent Baalke feels the value for another position, aside from quarterback, is simply too great to pass up, we won’t be seeing a new franchise guy under center in Round 1.

And teams don’t necessarily need to have quarterbacks in order to win Super Bowls. The Denver Broncos can attest to this after what their defense did to the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.

You may not want to bet the house on San Francisco looking at a quarterback with its first selection after all.

If not a quarterback, who would be the first target?

Next: 49ers Take WR Corey Coleman in Round 1