The 49ers had one of the best first rounds, even before they traded up for Joe Staley. Patrick Willis was worthy of a top ten pick and he should be a tremendously productive player right away for the 49ers. He should easily be in the running for defensive rookie of the year right from the start. I don't think Staley was worth their 2008 first round choice, but they did have a desperate need for a franchise left tackle. The value of that trade will be determined based on how they finish this year. Jason Hill isn't an elite receiver by any means, but he can stretch the field which could open things up for Alex Smith. Ray McDonald and Jay Moore are both great picks. Neither one is a star, but they could both play defensive end in the Niners 3-4 system. The only thing that concerns me is that there are rumors of moving Moore to outside linebacker. He doesn't have the athleticism to make that transition. They reached for Goldson. He can play corner or safety, so he gives them some depth, but don't expect him to earn a starting job any time soon. I also think they reached for Cohen. He benefits from coming from a championship defense, but he isn't a game changer and he'll struggle for a roster spot. I like the risk they took on Tarell Brown. Despite his character issues I thought someone might take a risk on him on day one. I'm not sure he'll ever overcome those issues, but its worth a 5th round pick to find out. Thomas Clayton was a safe pick in the 6th round. He won't steal carries from Gore any time soon, but he could develop into a decent backup. Overall, this was a very solid draft for the 49ers. Willis and Staley have a chance to be stars and they landed a number of quality role players and a few potential future starters in the later rounds.
Grade: B+

The 49ers first round went great. Vernon Davis will have a huge instant impact on their offense, and make life a lot easier on Alex Smith. Manny Lawson is a perfect fit for outside linebacker in their 3-4 defensive scheme. After that however, the 49ers went downhill. They added three receivers, none of whom look like a future #1 guy. Brandon Williams is a speed guy, best suited for the slot receiver position. Robinson and Walker are projects. Haralson looks like the type of player that peaked in college. He isn't a great athlete and could just be an overachiever. I really like Marcus Hudson's chances at develop, but he is very raw. Oliver and Vaughn are projects and won't do much for the 49ers. Overall, they did add two guys that should have instant impact, but after Lawson and Davis. However, they'll be lucky to get one decent player developed out of their late round picks.
Grade: C