After another disappointing season for the San Francisco 49ers marred by injuries and underachieving, fans can once again look to next season. The return of players like Jerick McKinnon and Jimmy Garoppolo can give hope to fans, but what else needs to be looked at by GM John Lynch?
What position outside of pass rusher is the 49ers biggest need?
While secondary help and linebacker depth are very much needed, the 49ers need to get themselves a wide receiver this year. With McKinnon and Garoppolo coming back, and George Kittle now an established All-Star, all this offense needs is a No. 1 wideout. While Antonio Brown would be the biggest possible haul, look for someone like Golden Tate in free agency to be a more realistic target for 2019.
Potential Free Agent Fits
As previously stated, Tate would be a nice fit. Someone like Dante Fowler could bolster our pass rush as well, although at this point it would be shocking if the Niners first-rounder isn’t a pass rusher. Of course, Earl Thomas seems like he would be a perfect fit with Richard Sherman and Robert Saleh in the red and gold.
Position battles to monitor
Although both will be used heavily, it will be interesting to see which running back will get more touches throughout the season, Matt Breida or McKinnon. Also, DJ Reed and Marcell Harris came on strong at the end of the season and should be in a battle for a secondary that struggled mightily last season.
Evaluating Kyle Shanahan
Shanahan does not have the record of a great coach, but he has the mind and presence of one. Should the team stay mostly healthy this year, the pressure will be on Shanahan and Lynch to perform. Shanahan has shown more than enough to prove he deserves to be a head coach in this league, and listening to his interviews and breakdowns is always a learning experience.
