49ers NFL Draft 2022 primer: Everything you need to know
By Peter Panacy
What are the 49ers’ 2022 NFL Draft needs?
As things stand now, San Francisco is a playoff-contending team without too many glaring holes on its roster.
Even if Trey Lance is poised to take over from veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.
That said, no team is perfect and will nevertheless look to shore up particular areas of weakness. In this regard, the 49ers are no exception.
Offensive Line
Left guard Laken Tomlinson already departed via free agency, while center Alex Mack is reportedly mulling retirement. If all other positions remain the same, turning over 40 percent of the starting offensive line creates quite the need for reinforcement and depth.
Cornerback
The Niners added their No. 1 cornerback by signing Charvarius Ward in free agency but could still stand for competition at the other boundary spot. Additionally, losing nickel cornerback K’Waun Williams in free agency creates a void over the slot.
Safety
Strong safety Jaquiski Tartt remains unsigned, creating a glaring hole at that particular spot within the secondary.
San Francisco has possible options on the roster, but none are tried-and-true starters.
Defensive Line
While the interior of the defensive line looks intact despite losing nose tackle D.J. Jones in free agency, finding another outside pass-rusher to pair with EDGE Nick Bosa should be high atop the 49ers’ wish list.
Good thing this year’s draft is chock full of pass-rushers.
Wide Receiver
Depending on how things pan out with disgruntled wide receiver Deebo Samuel, the Niners could either look to make this a top-priority need or less of one, should he stay, yet the depth should still be addressed with yet another strong cast of wideout prospects.