Top team needs for the San Francisco 49ers in the 2020 NFL Draft

Wide Receiver

The San Francisco 49ers had a solid wide receiver room heading into the 2019 season, but even as the wins amassed, it felt like they lacked a true difference-maker. Rookie Deebo Samuel was on his way, but finding a veteran presence was important. Before the trade deadline, the Niners dealt for Emmanuel Sanders, who brought a different element to the team, and was a major part of their run to Miami.

Now Sanders is off to New Orleans, where he will try to create that magic with another team on a run. His departure leaves Samuel as the top guy in the room, along with complementary players like Kendrick Bourne, Richie James, Dante Pettis, and Jalen Hurd. Trent Taylor is also returning from injury.

It feels like that room isn’t quite complete. The Niners are in a position to draft a top receiver, thanks to the Buckner trade. At 13, it’s likely they’ll be able to select one of the consensus top three at the position.

CeeDee Lamb is a reliable receiver with great ability after the catch and good body control and prowess in contested spots. Jerry Jeudy is an elite separator and will make defenders look silly from the snap to the open field. Henry Ruggs III might fit best in that he can take on the sweeps and reverses Kyle Shanahan likes to run.