The following article is an exclusive guest piece by Matthew Davin. Matthew is a writer for DraftWatchers.com, a site that focuses on draft analysis.
When I think of a quarterback for the 49ers, I think of Shaun "Will Ferrel" Hill, chucking up ducks and picks for all defenses to feast on. Then I contemplate Alex Smith, who did look good, but I don't think has the mojo to be the team leader for a whole season.
In less than two weeks, I the 49ers are going to be in great position to do two things at one time. Since they obviously they have two first round mid-picks, why not take advantage of a very good situation, and draft one player for now, and another for the short term future.
My first pick would be an area of need. 49ers fans: YOU NEED AN OFFENSIVE LINEMAN. I don't care who. Shift some guys around, and pick the best player available. But after that, there should be no doubt that a quarterback for your soon future should be considered. It's not like San Francisco is Detroit or St. Louis. They are a team that is on the brink of the playoffs. But do you think Alex Smith is that guy? The answer to that is no. With a guy like that, you will always be one year away from making the playoffs till he is out of there. Jimmy Clausen is the guy that will take this team to the next level.
I sure a lot of you Rice-A-Roni people are thinking something more immediate, but don't get greedy. In a league that moves at the speed of light when it comes to rebuilding, you may as well get a step ahead of that and draft a big arm, that can make Michael Crabtree an even more viable threat. Jimmy Clausen makes the big plays, and gets it done. Frank Gore ... more effective. Vernon Davis ... more open. Jimmy Clausen ... a good risk when you have a chance to afford one.