Question: Ok Matt, you're the 49ers beat writer and probably have more info on the 49ers than any of us readers. Suppose that on NFL draft weekend we turn you into Mike Nolan for one weekend. What do you do in the draft to improve the 49ers (your picks, trading up or down, etc.)?
--Dennis A. Walter, Elk Grove
Answer: Do I get paid like Mike Nolan for a weekend? Because there's this cool flat-screen TV I have my eye on.
Ok, this is what I do. Because my new 3-4 defensive will only work if my linebackers have room to roam, I draft either Alan Branch or Adam Carriker with my first-round pick. Both guys are massive and strong and will occupy the opponent's o-line. Then, I pool my second-round pick with a third and two fourths to move back into the first round where I draft Robert Meachem, the receiver out of Tennessee. I use my remaining third rounder on the best offensive lineman available and my remaining two fourth rounders on a running back and defensive end-turned-linebacker.
On Day 2, I draft Mike Devito, a huge nose tackle from the University of Maine who is quick enough to play DE in my scheme. I use my sixth rounder on the best remaining receiver out there.
-- Matt Barrows








About Comments
Reader comments on Sacbee.com are the opinions of the writer, not The Sacramento Bee. If you see an objectionable comment, click the "report abuse" button below it. We will delete comments containing inappropriate links, obscenities, hate speech, and personal attacks. Flagrant or repeat violators will be banned. See more about comments here.