Originally posted by Karma:
I was disappointed that I didn't recognize more names when we announced our picks, but what do I know? The one thing I do know is that it is ridiculously sophomoric to argue about it. As a fan, I am looking for reasons to be optimistic. That's what fans do. If your brand of fandom means that you look for reasons to be pessimistic and get indignant about decisions you don't understand, then have at it. But that can't be very enjoyable. I am a fan because I want something to distract and entertain me, not something else in my life to whine and moan about.
Reading about these draft picks, there is reason for hope and I think we can make some assumptions:
* Shanahan went into this off season focused on getting the offense he wants. They spent big money on a Center, RB, QB. They spent big draft Capitol on OT and WR/PR. Shanahan wants to put points up first and I am ok with that.
* They obviously thought Special Teams was a bigger concern than we did. Taylor is a fine PR, but he just doesn't have the speed to be dangerous. Same goes for him as a slot receiver. He is a great third down target when the team needs 5-10 yards, but that is about all he gives you. That doesn't mean he doesn't have a place on the team, but Pettis is going to bite into his snaps because he can break one as well. Add to that all of the DBs like Moore, Reed, and Harris who all figure to improve these units and you see how much Shanahan and Lynch were focused on field position.
* While we were freaking out about the EDGE, they saw a huge mess in the secondary. I can't say I blame them. At the beginning of the off season we had one CB, one slot CB, and three young, oft injured, or positionless safeties. So they spent tons of draft Capitol on speed, size, and length back there. They also brought in the prototypical CB for this defense to play and mentor. It is a move not just for this year, but the next 4-5 years.
* In the second year of six year deals, this regime does not feel the need to sell out to be contenders immediately. Everyone is looking enviously at the Rams, but if they flop this year they are screwed. They have pushed all of their chips into the middle for a shot this year. It might work out, but I like our approach. The slower built house often lasts longer.
* Remember how Harbaugh has a reputation for not playing younger guys? His draft picks would sit for years and we would say, "they are just learning and waiting." Maybe it was because Baalke was terrible, or maybe he didn't have enough faith in younger players. Either way, young players are being given a chance to play and grow. That is what gives me the most hope for this draft class and this year. The coaches are being counted on to prepare their players and the players are responding. Colbert was forced into playing FS and exceeded expectations. Kittle, Taylor, Breida, Witherspoon, and even Magnuson showed growth in their first years. They weren't perfect but the got better. That's why I am not as worried about Moore's transition to CB or Harris' year off. Our coaches seem to get the players ready.
good post. Agree about Taylor, he will always have a place on this team. He is a chain mover on 3rd down even though he doesn't have too much speed. Richie James has a better chance of replacing him than Pettis, Pettis imo will eventually replace garcon.The secondary players we have are exciting. DJ Reed is gonna be a huge steal. Moore could become a shutdown corner if he learns from sherman and takes advantage of his athleticism. Even McFadden has a shot of thriving here.
People forget that we are rebuilding. We have a damn young roster. The only real old guy on this team is Staley. Give our guys a chance to develop (particularly our pass rushers).
