2007 DRAFT NEEDS:

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

presented by

by PFT Editor Mike Florio, with Matt Miller of NewEraScouting.com

The 49ers have lesser draft needs than they did at the outset of free agency, given that they've gone on a spending spree that featured the addition of cornerback Nate Clements and various other new players.

But, then again, we're talking about the 49ers.  So there is still ample room for improvement.

Receiver remains a significant area of need, given the departure of Antonio Bryant.  They've added Ashley Lelie, but they need to do a lot more to conjure memories of days gone by in the Bay Area. 

There are plenty of high-caliber pass catchers in this year's crop, and the Niners should have their pick of any of them other than Calvin Johnson.

But the real needs are on defense, where the 49ers are likely to spend their first-round pick.  Linebacker Patrick Willis could be a candidate, if he is still on the board.  But he likely won't be after running the 40 in under 4.4 seconds.  Twice.  Another possibility would be to nab David Harris in round two.

The team needs a solid nose tackle in order to justify a switch to the 3-4.  Several are available in this year's big, fat crop of crap factories.

Defensive end is also an area of need, given that mainstay Bryant Young is 43.  Or something.

With Michael Lewis signed to play safety, the needs at the position are somewhat diminished.  Still, they could use a young guy to beef up the defensive backfield, and it would be wise to use a first-day pick at this position.

Back on the offensive side of the ball, the Niners could use some youthful insurance at tackle in the event that doubts about the long-term value of Jonas Jennings are accurate.

In all, the 49ers generally seem to be on the right track.  If the 2007 draft were to yield a couple of instant starters, the team could get even closer to a playoff berth than it did a year ago.