Niner Noise
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49ers: An early look at the 5 biggest needs in the 2023 NFL draft

By James LeBreton

Commissioner Roger Goodell names a pick by the San Francisco 49ers during the 2016 NFL Draft (Photo by Jon Durr/Getty Images)
Commissioner Roger Goodell names a pick by the San Francisco 49ers during the 2016 NFL Draft (Photo by Jon Durr/Getty Images) /
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Arik Armstead, San Francisco 49ers
Oct 10, 2021; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead (91) walks off the field after the Arizona Cardinals defeated the 49ers 17-10 at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Coduto-USA TODAY Sports /

5 biggest draft needs No. 3: Defensive Tackle

Prior to selecting quarterback Trey Lance in the 2021 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers chose to invest their first-round pick on the defensive front a total of five times in six years. So why in the world would they invest any pick on the front four moving forward?

Quite simply, only two of those five selections are healthy and still on the roster. Edge specialist Nick Bosa continues to thrive and baffle opposing offenses, and defensive end Arik Armstead has found a home on the interior line and is an absolute monster against the run.

Javon Kinlaw looked to be a great prospect, but injuries have slowed his progress to find stability on the everyday roster. Prior to the start of the season, he made strides in getting healthy and looked to be the real deal. Sadly, he finds himself on injured reserve for the second year straight and has only played seven games in his last two seasons.

The 49ers are currently number one in defense and have continued to slay the opposition despite injuries. But imagine what another prospect like Armstead could do alongside the real Armstead.

It’s scary to think about but it would be fun to watch.