The San Francisco 49ers have one of the NFL's oldest rosters. That brings plenty of experience, including players who have been through some of the league's most important games. However, it also means the team's veteran core is inching closer to the point when age could begin to affect its performance.

49ers general manager John Lynch joined The TK Show this week and addressed the team's aging roster. He explained why he remains confident that the 49ers have done enough to prepare for the future.


Analysts have criticized the 49ers' recent draft classes, although it is still too early to make any definitive judgments. Lynch acknowledged the importance of hitting on draft picks to ensure the team has talented players ready to step into larger roles as veterans eventually depart.

"You never want to be this middling team where you're an aging team, and then you don't have a plan for the future," Lynch told Tim Kawakami. "Well, in order to have a plan for the future, you better hit on your draft choices. And so, while the household names haven't come from last year's draft, we think, in totality, there were 11 draft choices. Last year, all 11 were here and contributed.

"And I think a lot of those guys, these are important years for them, years two and three. The [DT] Alfred Collins, the [DT] C.J. West, other players, [WR] Jordan Watkins, [WR] Jacob Cowing, to show that they're a part of this thing going forward."

The 49ers are also hoping second-year players such as defensive lineman Mykel Williams and cornerback Upton Stout can make significant leaps and become more impactful contributors.

"And I believe they have that capacity," Lynch continued. "I believe they have that ability, but they've got to go show it. And so, I think that's the next progression."


Lynch firmly believes the 49ers have a healthy mix of veteran experience and youthful potential, which is typically a strong formula for both immediate and long-term success.

"We do have some outstanding players, but they are aging," Lynch admitted. "And so, you have to prepare for the future, and good organizations do that. And I think we've been able to toe that line that creates a really good situation. Tough decisions always have to be made, but we're in good position."

Lynch credited 49ers ownership for consistently investing in the roster when necessary, and he has confidence in his staff's ability to identify future playmakers.

"The last couple of years, those drafts were critical, and the fact that we've stockpiled players that are contributors," Lynch said. "Now, the next deal, as I alluded to, is: can they take up their game a notch and become impact players, become needle-moving players? Now, you're kind of cooking with gas, and that's our hope."



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