NFL San Francisco 49ers

2015 NFL Draft: San Francisco 49ers’ Top 5 Needs

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By @sdmeyers1

2015 NFL Draft: San Francisco 49ers' Top 5 Needs

Michael Crabtree 3
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For the past several seasons, the San Francisco 49ers have boasted one of the deepest rosters in the NFL. After a disappointing season in 2014, however, the team will look to potentially address several areas of need through the draft. Here are the top five needs for the 49ers for the 2015 NFL Draft.

5. Quarterback

Blaine Gabbert Colin Kaepernick
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5. Quarterback

Blaine Gabbert Colin Kaepernick
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Colin Kaepernick isn't going anywhere, but the 49ers should try to develop a long-term solution behind him at the position. The past two seasons, the team has brought in a pair of reclamation projects in Colt McCoy and Blaine Gabbert. This season, Gabbert really didn't have a chance to show his skills in a game, but San Francisco is more likely to find a capable signal-caller through the draft than by acquiring another retread.

4. Running Back

Frank Gore 3
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4. Running Back

Frank Gore 3
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Just a few months ago, it appeared the 49ers had perhaps the deepest stable of running backs in the entire league. Since that time, though, Marcus Lattimore retired, LaMichael James was waived and Kendall Hunter missed the entire season with injury. Furthermore, legendary 49er Frank Gore is an impending free agent. Even if he re-signs, San Francisco may want to add depth behind him and Carlos Hyde.

3. Cornerback

Perrish Cox
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3. Cornerback

Perrish Cox
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Ravaged by injury all season, the 49ers cornerbacks have exceeded all expectations in 2014. The top two contributors, Chris Culliver and Perrish Cox, are both slated to hit free agency, though, as is Chris Cook. Additionally, first-round pick Jimmie Ward struggled at times as the nickel corner and may eventually shift to safety. The team will either need to provide considerable raises to Culliver and Cox or look to restock via the draft.

2. Wide Receiver

Bruce Ellington 2
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2. Wide Receiver

Bruce Ellington 2
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Heading into this season, the 49ers beefed up their receiving corps with the acquisitions of Stevie Johnson, Brandon Lloyd and Bruce Ellington. Both of the veterans have struggled to consistently contribute, though, and Michael Crabtree will likely test the waters of free agency. Anquan Boldin is a monster, but behind him, the 49ers could use some new blood.

1. Defensive End

Justin Smith 3
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1. Defensive End

Justin Smith 3
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Defensive end became the biggest area of need last week when the 49ers cut ties with troubled veteran Ray McDonald. On the other end of the line, Justin Smith is nearing the end of his career and may not be back in 2015. Although Tank Carradine could eventually assume one of the spots, the 49ers need to find another option sooner rather than later.

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