5 bold predictions for San Francisco 49ers in 2021

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 05: Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers argues a pass interference call during the second quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium on November 05, 2020 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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GLENDALE, ARIZONA – DECEMBER 07: Cornerback Jason Verrett #22 of the San Francisco 49ers tackles wide receiver Cole Beasley #11 of the Buffalo Bills after a reception during the first half of the NFL football game at State Farm Stadium on December 07, 2020 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images) /

4. The 49ers will draft a rookie starter at corner

Jason Verrett is a legitimate No. 1 corner for the 49ers on one side of the formation. The quality of options on the other side of the field is where San Francisco needs to be concerned.

Dontae Johnson is going to get the first shot to make that starting spot his own, but he’s better suited to be a backup. That’s why the ‘Niners are going to use a relatively high draft choice to land a guy with more upside.

The 49ers aren’t going to use the No. 3 overall pick to fill that need. Instead, look for a second or third round selection to do the trick. Landing someone like Aaron Robinson, Kelvin Joseph or Eric Stokes could give Ryans’ defense the boost it needs at corner by the time the playoffs roll around.

Cornerback isn’t nearly as profound a need as quarterback is for San Francisco, but it would still be a major mistake by the front office if they don’t add a potential starter via this year’s draft. This issue won’t get a ton of ink from the press, but it’s crucial to the team’s Super Bowl aspirations.