Raiders Maxx Crosby holds key to unlocking 49ers Super Bowl aspirations
The 49ers did some admirable work this offseason, specifically at wide receiver, where the free agent signings of veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk and the drafting of De’Zhaun Stribling added proven production and firepower to that room.They also added defensive lineman Osa Odighizuwa and linebacker Dre Greenlaw to a group that ranked 13th in the NFL in points given up per game at 21.8 last season.All that, coupled with what they hope are healthy seasons from Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, George Kittle and Brock Purdy — all of whom missed significant-to-considerable time last year with injuries — will put the 49ers in the thick of the NFC West battle with the Seahawks and Rams.But it might not have been enough to close the gap on the Seahawks, the defending Super Bowl champions, or keep up with the Rams, who went on a rampage this offseason by adding all-world edge rusher Myles Garrett and All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie.And unless they make up the necessary ground, the Super Bowl window they built for themselves is in danger of closing without adding another Lombardi Trophy.Imagine the regret that will cause when they look back at this period of franchise history, knowing they failed to maximize a core group of players as good as any in the NFL.It doesn’t have to be that way, though.In fact, there is a blockbuster move to be made that would edge them closer to the Rams.No, it’s not beefing up at safety, where legitimate questions remain.It isn’t the strongest room in the league, but they won’t be the difference between the 49ers falling short of their ultimate goals.And it’s not strengthening their offensive line.
Kyle Shanahan has always shown he can scheme around that group’s deficiencies.California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedInCalifornia Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, XCalifornia Post Opinion California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!California Post App: Download here!Home delivery...