Despite this hot start, the ‘silver and black’ still have needs. For die-hard fans, it’s never too early to look at the latest mocks and see what college stars could begin their professional careers in Northern California.
The offensive line has played some good football and it might seem wasteful to use a first round pick when other positions might seem a bigger priority. A closer look reveals cracks at the tackle position, issues that could become a bigger problem if not addressed.
Left tackle Donald Penn is now 33-years-old and the right side has issues with Austin Howard and Menelik Watson both having troubles staying healthy. This has led to several experts projecting the front office will use an early pick in the 2017 NFL Draft to add depth.
Fan Sided has Florida State youngster Roderick Johnson as the best option and if available, a solid option for the Oakland Raiders. As fans know, the best offensive lineman will go inside the top-10 players taken in the first round, so waiting until round two could make more sense.
Draft Site also believes an offensive tackle is needed and their latest mock has Orlando Brown of Oklahoma as the best option. The 6’7″ 325 pound monster needs some polish, but is projected as a second or third round player. Adding this young man would allow the front office to get someone to help the defense in the opening round next April and give Brown time to learn the ropes at the next level, but not feel the pressure to perform immediately.
There’s not much doubt that this football team will draft depth on the line and it will likely be early, but linebacker and corner are more pressing needs. Look for Jarrad Davis of Florida or Adoree Jackson of USC as more likely first round targets and the front office to use the second or third round to add depth on the offensive line.
