2024 Off-Season

[CrimsonCrew]

A lot of unbiased non 49ers fans are very vocal critics of Purdy. I’m a Niners fan, but I also understand that fanbases can have biases.

A lot. Like 5% LOL. And they are the most biased.

Did you watch any of the debate shows last year? Whenever he was brought up it was like 50-50.

That's punditry. It makes for good content when guys disagree. A "debate show" would be awfully boring if they just agreed.

This is really a pretty hilarious comment, pointing out that there was disagreement on a debate show. That's the entire point of the show, and guys very obviously argue points they don't actually believe at times just to make a counter-point.

[Big J]

A lot. Like 5% LOL. And they are the most biased.

Did you watch any of the debate shows last year? Whenever he was brought up it was like 50-50.

That's punditry. It makes for good content when guys disagree. A "debate show" would be awfully boring if they just agreed.

This is really a pretty hilarious comment, pointing out that there was disagreement on a debate show. That's the entire point of the show, and guys very obviously argue points they don't actually believe at times just to make a counter-point.

The debate is between people who think he's a top 5 QB vs though who think he's a Jimmy G type being propped up by his weapons. I don't there's mass agreement on that.

[CrimsonCrew]

Did you watch any of the debate shows last year? Whenever he was brought up it was like 50-50.

That's punditry. It makes for good content when guys disagree. A "debate show" would be awfully boring if they just agreed.

This is really a pretty hilarious comment, pointing out that there was disagreement on a debate show. That's the entire point of the show, and guys very obviously argue points they don't actually believe at times just to make a counter-point.

The debate is between people who think he's a top 5 QB vs though who think he's a Jimmy G type being propped up by his weapons. I don't there's mass agreement on that.

There certainly isn't mass agreement on that. But again, how much have these guys really watched him? He's objectively a really, really good QB, or at least he has been to date. Anyone who has watched all of his games can see that. And that's when we compare him to the best players in the game at present. When we compare him to second-year players historically, he's arguably the best ever.

Any physical limitations have not prevented him from playing at a very high level. And again, for all the playmaking weapons, he had one of the worst OLs in the playoffs. Especially when Mahomes' greatest offensive liability (weak OTs) was mitigated by simply allowing them to hold with impunity. If our pass protection didn't completely fall apart in the SB, he would be a Lombardi winner and likely the SB MVP.

Concerns about his abilities without an excellent supporting cast are of course valid, but that's true of any of these guys. Mahomes wouldn't have won this year without his defense playing out of their minds throughout the playoffs.

[Big J]

That's punditry. It makes for good content when guys disagree. A "debate show" would be awfully boring if they just agreed.

This is really a pretty hilarious comment, pointing out that there was disagreement on a debate show. That's the entire point of the show, and guys very obviously argue points they don't actually believe at times just to make a counter-point.

The debate is between people who think he's a top 5 QB vs though who think he's a Jimmy G type being propped up by his weapons. I don't there's mass agreement on that.

There certainly isn't mass agreement on that. But again, how much have these guys really watched him? He's objectively a really, really good QB, or at least he has been to date. Anyone who has watched all of his games can see that. And that's when we compare him to the best players in the game at present. When we compare him to second-year players historically, he's arguably the best ever.

Any physical limitations have not prevented him from playing at a very high level. And again, for all the playmaking weapons, he had one of the worst OLs in the playoffs. Especially when Mahomes' greatest offensive liability (weak OTs) was mitigated by simply allowing them to hold with impunity. If our pass protection didn't completely fall apart in the SB, he would be a Lombardi winner and likely the SB MVP.

Concerns about his abilities without an excellent supporting cast are of course valid, but that's true of any of these guys. Mahomes wouldn't have won this year without his defense playing out of their minds throughout the playoffs.

True, but Jimmy G did all of that same stuff. He even made a SB and a couple conference championships without having McCaffrey in the backfield with him.

[Pattersonca65]

The debate is between people who think he's a top 5 QB vs though who think he's a Jimmy G type being propped up by his weapons. I don't there's mass agreement on that.

There certainly isn't mass agreement on that. But again, how much have these guys really watched him? He's objectively a really, really good QB, or at least he has been to date. Anyone who has watched all of his games can see that. And that's when we compare him to the best players in the game at present. When we compare him to second-year players historically, he's arguably the best ever.

Any physical limitations have not prevented him from playing at a very high level. And again, for all the playmaking weapons, he had one of the worst OLs in the playoffs. Especially when Mahomes' greatest offensive liability (weak OTs) was mitigated by simply allowing them to hold with impunity. If our pass protection didn't completely fall apart in the SB, he would be a Lombardi winner and likely the SB MVP.

Concerns about his abilities without an excellent supporting cast are of course valid, but that's true of any of these guys. Mahomes wouldn't have won this year without his defense playing out of their minds throughout the playoffs.

True, but Jimmy G did all of that same stuff. He even made a SB and a couple conference championships without having McCaffrey in the backfield with him.

Jimmy G didn't play nearly as well. Not even close

[Pattersonca65]

A lot of unbiased non 49ers fans are very vocal critics of Purdy. I’m a Niners fan, but I also understand that fanbases can have biases.

A lot. Like 5% LOL. And they are the most biased.

Did you watch any of the debate shows last year? Whenever he was brought up it was like 50-50.

Look at the fan sites it is 95% to 5%. It isn't even close. The 5% lunatic fringe

[Big J]

A lot. Like 5% LOL. And they are the most biased.

Did you watch any of the debate shows last year? Whenever he was brought up it was like 50-50.

Look at the fan sites it is 95% to 5%. It isn't even close. The 5% lunatic fringe

Yea, I agree that its 95% with 49er fan sites.

[wco81]

What is Aiyuk’s status again, presumably they picked up his fifth year option?

If he puts up another 1000 yard season, he’s going to expect $25 million and over per year.

Only way the 49ers give him a big extension would be to move Deebo. And they should be looking t9 draft a WR this year regardless, though they have so many other needs. But it’s suppose to be a deep WR class so can they find a potential #2 in the 3rd round and later?

[CrimsonCrew]

The debate is between people who think he's a top 5 QB vs though who think he's a Jimmy G type being propped up by his weapons. I don't there's mass agreement on that.

There certainly isn't mass agreement on that. But again, how much have these guys really watched him? He's objectively a really, really good QB, or at least he has been to date. Anyone who has watched all of his games can see that. And that's when we compare him to the best players in the game at present. When we compare him to second-year players historically, he's arguably the best ever.

Any physical limitations have not prevented him from playing at a very high level. And again, for all the playmaking weapons, he had one of the worst OLs in the playoffs. Especially when Mahomes' greatest offensive liability (weak OTs) was mitigated by simply allowing them to hold with impunity. If our pass protection didn't completely fall apart in the SB, he would be a Lombardi winner and likely the SB MVP.

Concerns about his abilities without an excellent supporting cast are of course valid, but that's true of any of these guys. Mahomes wouldn't have won this year without his defense playing out of their minds throughout the playoffs.

True, but Jimmy G did all of that same stuff. He even made a SB and a couple conference championships without having McCaffrey in the backfield with him.

No, he didn't. Jimmy G didn't outplay anyone in the playoffs. He made it to the SB after throwing for 208 yards and one TD COMBINED in two playoff games. Meanwhile, the team ran for 470 yards and six TDs. The team won in the playoffs in spite of him, not because of him. And when he needed to muster even one drive for points late in the SB, he couldn't do it.

Purdy outplayed or matched everyone he faced, except OT Mahomes, and even in that game he put his team into the lead the last three times he had the ball. Purdy vs. Jimmy G is a dead letter, and anyone who can't see that simply doesn't understand the game of football.

[CrimsonCrew]

What is Aiyuk’s status again, presumably they picked up his fifth year option?

If he puts up another 1000 yard season, he’s going to expect $25 million and over per year.

Only way the 49ers give him a big extension would be to move Deebo. And they should be looking t9 draft a WR this year regardless, though they have so many other needs. But it’s suppose to be a deep WR class so can they find a potential #2 in the 3rd round and later?

He's under contract for this year, and they can franchise him next year - and trade him then, if they want. After this year, it would be nearly impossible to keep both Aiyuk and Samuel.

This WR class is incredible in terms of the top end (three top-10 talents) and depth. There will be some really good players available in the third round, and plenty of interesting guys on day four. I don't love them taking a WR in the first two rounds unless the value is just ridiculous given the caliber of player they can find later relative to other positions, but I would have no problem with them adding two players from round three on. Particularly as they need a return man.

[Pattersonca65]

There certainly isn't mass agreement on that. But again, how much have these guys really watched him? He's objectively a really, really good QB, or at least he has been to date. Anyone who has watched all of his games can see that. And that's when we compare him to the best players in the game at present. When we compare him to second-year players historically, he's arguably the best ever.

Any physical limitations have not prevented him from playing at a very high level. And again, for all the playmaking weapons, he had one of the worst OLs in the playoffs. Especially when Mahomes' greatest offensive liability (weak OTs) was mitigated by simply allowing them to hold with impunity. If our pass protection didn't completely fall apart in the SB, he would be a Lombardi winner and likely the SB MVP.

Concerns about his abilities without an excellent supporting cast are of course valid, but that's true of any of these guys. Mahomes wouldn't have won this year without his defense playing out of their minds throughout the playoffs.

True, but Jimmy G did all of that same stuff. He even made a SB and a couple conference championships without having McCaffrey in the backfield with him.

No, he didn't. Jimmy G didn't outplay anyone in the playoffs. He made it to the SB after throwing for 208 yards and one TD COMBINED in two playoff games. Meanwhile, the team ran for 470 yards and six TDs. The team won in the playoffs in spite of him, not because of him. And when he needed to muster even one drive for points late in the SB, he couldn't do it.

Purdy outplayed or matched everyone he faced, except OT Mahomes, and even in that game he put his team into the lead the last three times he had the ball. Purdy vs. Jimmy G is a dead letter, and anyone who can't see that simply doesn't understand the game of football.

When you have nothing of substance you have to throw anything and hope it sticks

[RIPskaterdude]

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[CrimsonCrew]

The team brought back Trent Taylor. Obvious replacement for Ray-Ray McCloud. Really seems like the team is doing everything they can to go into the draft without a glaring hole that absolutely has to be filled. It's a sound approach, but I also can't help but wonder if some of these guys wouldn't be available on the cheap after the draft.

[arich35]

The team brought back Trent Taylor. Obvious replacement for Ray-Ray McCloud. Really seems like the team is doing everything they can to go into the draft without a glaring hole that absolutely has to be filled. It's a sound approach, but I also can't help but wonder if some of these guys wouldn't be available on the cheap after the draft.

Kyle really doesn't want to rely on a rookie

[Pattersonca65]

The team brought back Trent Taylor. Obvious replacement for Ray-Ray McCloud. Really seems like the team is doing everything they can to go into the draft without a glaring hole that absolutely has to be filled. It's a sound approach, but I also can't help but wonder if some of these guys wouldn't be available on the cheap after the draft.

Has Taylor done much since leaving SF? He was at least reliable as a punt returner. He never.miffed a punt but also didn't do much with it once he had it. He also seemed a step slow at receiver after his foot surgeries. Downgrade from Ray Ray

[CrimsonCrew]

The team brought back Trent Taylor. Obvious replacement for Ray-Ray McCloud. Really seems like the team is doing everything they can to go into the draft without a glaring hole that absolutely has to be filled. It's a sound approach, but I also can't help but wonder if some of these guys wouldn't be available on the cheap after the draft.

Has Taylor done much since leaving SF? He was at least reliable as a punt returner. He never.miffed a punt but also didn't do much with it once he had it. He also seemed a step slow at receiver after his foot surgeries. Downgrade from Ray Ray

Almost nothing as a receiver, but he's been a solid return man. Probably a wash with Ray Ray in that area.

[thesack12]

The team brought back Trent Taylor. Obvious replacement for Ray-Ray McCloud. Really seems like the team is doing everything they can to go into the draft without a glaring hole that absolutely has to be filled. It's a sound approach, but I also can't help but wonder if some of these guys wouldn't be available on the cheap after the draft.

Has Taylor done much since leaving SF? He was at least reliable as a punt returner. He never.miffed a punt but also didn't do much with it once he had it. He also seemed a step slow at receiver after his foot surgeries. Downgrade from Ray Ray

Almost nothing as a receiver, but he's been a solid return man. Probably a wash with Ray Ray in that area.

Maybe not quite as much as James did, but Taylor left a ton of yards on the field as SF's return guy.

Took too many fair catches when there was room to operate, and elected to not even field others which led to backing the offense up farther than it should have been.

When he does attempt a return, he surely isn't a guy that is going to pick up much extra yardage beyond what is blocked. He's not going to make a lot of guys miss, and won't break too many tackles.

This is about as underwhelming of a signing as it gets, and unfortunately it currently looks like he's actually going to play a role on the team. This move does next to nothing to move the needle for a team that already had low level special teams play.

And as mentioned he's provides nothing but a body for the WR position.

I sure as hell hope they have a lot better plan for kick returner, than what their apparent one is for punt returner. With the kickoff rule change, KR is looking like it might actually be an important role for teams this season.

[Pattersonca65]

Has Taylor done much since leaving SF? He was at least reliable as a punt returner. He never.miffed a punt but also didn't do much with it once he had it. He also seemed a step slow at receiver after his foot surgeries. Downgrade from Ray Ray

Almost nothing as a receiver, but he's been a solid return man. Probably a wash with Ray Ray in that area.

Maybe not quite as much as James did, but Taylor left a ton of yards on the field as SF's return guy.

Took too many fair catches when there was room to operate, and elected to not even field others which led to backing the offense up farther than it should have been.

When he does attempt a return, he surely isn't a guy that is going to pick up much extra yardage beyond what is blocked. He's not going to make a lot of guys miss, and won't break too many tackles.

This is about as underwhelming of a signing as it gets, and unfortunately it currently looks like he's actually going to play a role on the team. This move does next to nothing to move the needle for a team that already had low level special teams play.

And as mentioned he's provides nothing but a body for the WR position.

I sure as hell hope they have a lot better plan for kick returner, than what their apparent one is for punt returner. With the kickoff rule change, KR is looking like it might actually be an important role for teams this season.

During his time in SF as a punt returner, that was my general impression of Taylor. He could be relied on at least not to muff a punt but he never seemed to go anywhere with a return once he got the ball. When he first got to SF, he seemed to have a knack for finding the soft spots in the defense. I was hoping he was going to be SF's version of Julian Edelman. But the foot injuries derailed that. He looked slow after the injuries and now he is 30 years old.

[CrimsonCrew]

Has Taylor done much since leaving SF? He was at least reliable as a punt returner. He never.miffed a punt but also didn't do much with it once he had it. He also seemed a step slow at receiver after his foot surgeries. Downgrade from Ray Ray

Almost nothing as a receiver, but he's been a solid return man. Probably a wash with Ray Ray in that area.

Maybe not quite as much as James did, but Taylor left a ton of yards on the field as SF's return guy.

Took too many fair catches when there was room to operate, and elected to not even field others which led to backing the offense up farther than it should have been.

When he does attempt a return, he surely isn't a guy that is going to pick up much extra yardage beyond what is blocked. He's not going to make a lot of guys miss, and won't break too many tackles.

This is about as underwhelming of a signing as it gets, and unfortunately it currently looks like he's actually going to play a role on the team. This move does next to nothing to move the needle for a team that already had low level special teams play.

And as mentioned he's provides nothing but a body for the WR position.

I sure as hell hope they have a lot better plan for kick returner, than what their apparent one is for punt returner. With the kickoff rule change, KR is looking like it might actually be an important role for teams this season.

This is what the FO does. They find cheap players to fill their glaring holes before the draft with the hope that they can upgrade those guys - but with the realization that they can't address everything. I think it makes sense, though it's a stark contrast with, say, Dallas, who enters the draft with at least three or four absolutely glaring needs. There's an argument that they might as well just wait and see what happens in the draft and then add guys to fill holes after, but the guys they are adding at this point are close to vet minimum players, and by acting before the draft the Niners get their pick of the players - though that guaranteed money can accumulate if too many get cut.

Re: Taylor, I haven't really followed him since he left, but I think it's safe to assume he's improved some. Lord knows being on another team could bolster his production as our STs are about as bad as there are in the league. But Taylor's averages are at least in the ballpark of McCloud's - admittedly a bit lower. He does fair catch quite a lot, but so did McCloud in 2022.

That said, this moves the needle for the team because McCloud is gone (and probably cost twice what Taylor will). We didn't have a guy who can reliably catch punts. Hopefully Bell can do that, but he was kind of shaky when he had chances last year. So they bring in a cheap vet to shore up what could otherwise be an emergency situation. There are some pretty interesting undersized but shifty WRs in this draft. I would be interested in adding a Jacob Cowing, Anthony Gould, or Isaiah Williams late on day three or as a UDFA. But now you don't have to reach for a guy with return abilities.

[CrimsonCrew]

Niners' picks from Dane Brugler's seven-round mock:

San Francisco 49ers
1 (31). Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois
2 (63). Andru Phillips, CB, Kentucky
3 (94). Jared Wiley, TE, TCU
4 (124). Christian Jones, OT, Texas
4 (132). Zak Zinter, G, Michigan
4 (135). Luke McCaffery, WR, Rice
5 (176). Jordan Magee, LB, Temple
6 (211). Blake Watson, RB, Memphis
6 (215). Khalid Duke, Edge, Kansas State
7 (251). Kamal Hadden, CB, Tennessee

I could live with this draft. Newton would be a very solid first-round pick. Of the available options at that point, he would be my guy (Adonai Mitchell probably second; no OL left worth the pick unless we went with project Suamataia).

I'd prefer Phillips in the third to the second, but there's a good chance he doesn't fall to 94 and he's a good fit for what we need/want.

He has us taking Jared Wiley in the 3rd over Ben Sinnott and Cade Stover, which is a departure from most rankings I've seen and higher than I'd like for a guy like Wiley. Wiley is interesting, as a huge TE with upside, but he doesn't have very good change-of-direction. I'd be tempted to go with another position there, though those other two TEs go before pick 124.

If we haven't addressed the OL earlier, Jones and Zinter seem like solid later-round picks. I like Jones as a later-round guy who could at least challenge McKivitz and maybe slide into LT at some point. I'm not sure Zinter is a great fit for our scheme. He's a good value at that pick, but I don't know that he's mobile enough to do the pulling our system calls for.

Fine with McCaffrey there. He's pretty interesting as a guy with really good measurables and pedigree who just hasn't played the position very long. Well worth the pick there to see what we can unlock, especially training next to big bro.

I have absolutely no feelings about the other four guys on first sight. I thought I was pretty up on this draft class, but I don't even really recognize those names. Briefly reading up, Watson is almost 25, but he's fast and has over 100 college receptions, so not a bad late-round fit. Duke is an undersized speed rusher, but that's kind of what's left at this point. I would be pretty surprised if we wait this late to draft a DE, but we did add some guys in FA.