2008 San Francisco 49ers preliminary report
The San Francisco 49ers played a pretty miserable season last year, finishing with a score of 5-11. Although the team started off with momentum, by the end of the season it had lost eight games in a row. Management kept head coach Mike Nolan, but offensive coordinator Jim Hostler was fired and replaced. Management changes aside, however, the success of the 49ers’ 2008 season could be determined by the NFL Draft pick. This year the team chose six players that they hope will help improve their offense and defense.
The first round pick was defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer from North Carolina. He was followed by guard Chilo Rachal from the University of Southern California and cornerback Reggie Smith from Oklahoma. Center Cody Wallace was next, coming from Texas A&M, while Virginia Tech wide receiver Josh Morgan and Ohio State linebacker Larry Grant rounded out the list. San Francisco had it pretty tough this year, considering that most teams that suffer from a bad season get some solace in the following year’s draft pick. However, the 49ers played their cards wrong and were down to just six players. How wisely did they choose?
Kentwan Balmer was cast, but he lacked the wow factor many fans had come to expect. Some pundits believe San Francisco needed a playmaker more than a defensive player. However, some fans have noted that the team’s defensive line has been lacking for a few years, and with Bryant Young’s retirement, it’s beginning to become a major concern. In theory, Balmer would be an ideal option to strengthen the defense. Balmer has played well for most of his career and very well his senior year in college. Does your performance of him qualify you for a first-round pick? Yes and no, although Balmer is obviously a talented player. What he worries about is whether or not he can maintain a high level of play throughout his games.
Chilo Rachal was brought in to improve the offensive line and is seen by some pundits as a raw specimen. However, he has the right size and a good combination of athleticism. When it comes to potential, and with the absences of Larry Allen and Justin Smiley, his skills could really be put to use this season.
Defensive back Reggie Smith received high praise for his athleticism and versatility, while Cody Wallace was seen as a solid backup. Josh Morgan was the most controversial pick, as he is one of the most talented players on the list, but with some character flaws that could become problematic. (That explains why Morgan fell down the rankings in recent months.) Morgan is seen by some as a boom or bust type of player; while others say that by such a late draft pick he is bound to do more good than harm.
Overall, the 2008 49ers Draft was a building process with a few loose nails and screws, but an otherwise solid build. If the 49ers develop their new