Ranking 49ers' top 5 positional needs entering 2024 offseason

At least the Niners don't need a top quarterback...
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch (L) and head coach Kyle Shanahan (R)
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch (L) and head coach Kyle Shanahan (R) / Chris Unger/GettyImages
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49ers need No. 2: Cornerback

Investing in top cornerback Charvarius Ward two offseason ago proved to be a massive win for the 49ers, while the maturation of fellow corner Deommodore Lenoir as a quality slot option was a positive development, too.

But there's still a need for the boundary after Lenoir moved inside, thanks to the failed free-agent pickup of cornerback Isaiah Oliver, whom the Niners recently jettisoned after one season into his two-year contract.

Unless San Francisco is banking on depth corner Ambry Thomas being on the positive side of consistent, cornerback is going to be a pressing need.

Top-end boundary cornerbacks are typicaly expensive on the free-agent market, meaning the 49ers either have to find a hidden gem on the ascent who'll jell with the system, or they'll have to strike well in the NFL Draft.

Perhaps both avenues should be taken this offseason to ensure there's a hit.