Roster: Right now the Niners' D is loaded with playmakers and they will stay elite because of their front seven, led by ILBs Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman. On offense, they are young and improving along the offensive line, but they will need to restock their skill positions in the next couple of years. There are enough difference-makers capable of several years more of production to keep them very competitive. -- Horton
Quarterback: Alex Smith had his best season in the league last year, but ranked just 22nd in QBR. Why? Well, Smith did his best work because he was so risk averse. He limited INTs, but often at the cost of holding onto the ball, taking a number of needless sacks. The jury is still out on him -- with the added weapons, if he's not better, San Fran must look for more, with Colin Kaepernick waiting in the wings. -- Dilfer
Draft: San Francisco is one of the better drafting teams in recent years. The roster looks strong at nearly every position group, and the fact that the 49ers are No. 4 in these rankings even with the limitations we've seen at QB is a testament to that. DE Aldon Smith(No. 7 pick, 2011) was a risk that paid off big. You like their chances because of solid young talent in a number of spots. -- Kiper
Front office: Trent Baalke is a very astute general manager, and while he has final say on all personnel matters, he lets Jim Harbaugh and the coaching staff have major input. In the past there were too many voices in the front office, but now the chain of command is more clear-cut and simplified. They identify their needs well and, while they prefer to build through the draft, they are not afraid to spend in free agency. When they do, the Niners are very responsible with how they spend their money, and veteran free agents love the positive and energetic coaching staff. -- Horton
Coaching: These guys are at the top of the NFL in terms of teaching staffs, as reflected by their college coaching backgrounds. They are outstanding technicians, they pay tremendous attention to detail and they are very innovative in their schemes on both sides of the ball. Although they haven't been together a long time there is tremendous loyalty to Harbaugh. They also have a nice blend of NFL coaching experience and young coaching enthusiasm. -- Horton
[ Edited by northvan49erman on May 23, 2012 at 12:13 PM ]
