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49ers: Ranking Positional Priorities for the 2017 NFL Draft

By Nicholas McGee

Feb 9, 2017; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch, head coach Kyle Shanahan and chief executive officer Jed York pose for a photo during a press conference at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 9, 2017; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch, head coach Kyle Shanahan and chief executive officer Jed York pose for a photo during a press conference at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 16, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) looks to throw a pass while avoiding a tackle by San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aaron Lynch (59) during the first half at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) looks to throw a pass while avoiding a tackle by San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aaron Lynch (59) during the first half at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Edge Rusher

For the last two seasons, the 49ers have been terrible at rushing the passer. It is a problem that has been even more glaring than the lack of a solution under center.

San Francisco has put up a mere 61 sacks in the last two seasons, with Ahmad Brooks leading the way with 12.5 sacks in that timeframe.

But Brooks is 33 and cannot continue to be relied on. Meanwhile, Aaron Lynch’s career progress has stalled and the likes of Eli Harold and Tank Carradine have fallen well below expectations.

If San Francisco is to build a fearsome defense once again, then having a potent pass rush will obviously be key.

Next: 49ers Cornerback Tramaine Brock Arrested for Domestic Incident, per Report

As they rebuild the 49ers cannot afford to have the same struggles getting after the quarterback. In a loaded edge rusher, San Francisco must address this need with multiple picks.