49ers do the obvious in CBS Sports' latest mock NFL Draft for 2023

The 49ers don't have too many holes to fill entering 2024, but the latest CBS Sports mock NFL Draft nails one spot that's an issue.

Stop and think what the San Francisco 49ers' biggest need is right now.

With a 4-0 start to 2023, and top-five offenses and defenses, the Niners are a powerhouse team that should be able to carry over the massive bulk of its core into 2024. There weren't a lot of roster holes entering this season, and there aren't likely to be too many entering next year either.

But there are a few.

San Francisco could probably use another starting-caliber cornerback, and pass-rushing depth remains a bit of a concern despite the resources thrown at the defensive line over the last few years.

And then there's the offensive line, too. Specifically the right side of it that's been somewhat problematic over the first quarter of the season, albeit not a massive liability.

So, while the 49ers aren't looking as if they'll be drafting early in April of next year, who might be the target for them when their first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft?

CBS Sports' Josh Edwards has an answer in his most recent 2024 mock draft.

49ers grab Arizona offensive tackle In Round 1 of 2024 mock NFL Draft

The Niners' O-line has managed to survive the first four weeks, although right guard Spencer Burford and right tackle Colton McKivitz haven't been overly convincing as long-term fixtures at their respective positions.

So, with the 2024 draft expected to be solid with good-quality linemen, it wouldn't be much of a shocker to see San Francisco take a lineman with its first pick.

That's what Edwards has the 49ers doing, grabbing University of Arizona tackle Jordan Morgan at No. 30 overall:

"San Francisco has made do with its offensive line but there is room for improvement. Jordan Morgan can move inside on the next level."

While the player is different, the strategy is similar to what Pro Football Focus thought the Niners would do early in 2024, grabbing a tackle (PFF chose Jonah Monheim of USC)

Both McKivitz and Burford may best be used as high-end backups, not starters, particularly if neither show major improvement over the remainder of the season. Plus, with lesser resources used on the O-line since 2021, it might be time for San Francisco to circle back to this position now that it has first-round picks again.

Why Edwards thought the 49ers would lose in the NFC Championship game again, though, is not cool.

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