49ers 5 biggest needs in 2022 NFL Draft with 2021 in rearview mirror

49ers NFL Draft Need No. 1: Defensive End

Yes, the team’s deepest, most talented group is the defensive line. The D-line is a clear strength led by EDGE Nick Bosa, who in a few short years has sky-rocketed to one of the best edge rushers in the game. And the rest of the line is littered with excellent depth and great developmental prospects.

So, why list this position group as the most pressing draft need heading in 2022?

That’s because San Francisco has been looking to upgrade the position so that it would have two monster bookends. The 49ers brought in EDGE Samson Ebukam last season hoping he would develop into a star. And while he started to produce more towards the end of the season, he still disappeared for long stretches and tends to stick to one pass-rushing move. The Niners then went on to bring more depth and a potential developmental starter in Charles Omenihu.

Like Samson, Omenihu has shown flashes and played better down the stretch. San Francisco could still choose to be patient and gamble on Samson and Omenihu developing into sack beasts, however, the team can’t wait for that development. Instead, the 49ers need a starter who can consistently complement Bosa so that opposing teams can’t just double- and triple-team him.

If the Niners are able to find that perfect pairing with Bosa, opposing quarterbacks will spend more time running for their lives or getting the grass out of their facemask.

In other words, San Francisco will be able to stonewall the running game while fielding an improved defensive backfield and unleashing a dangerous pash-rush attack. If the 49ers manage to upgrade these positions, then fans can certainly expect the team to once again be a Super Bowl contender.