Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch React To Draft Rumors at Pre-Draft Press Conference
With the NFL Draft rapidly approaching, one of the biggest mysteries in the draft sits at the third pick overall. Since the 49ers traded up with the Dolphins, draft media has been speculating about the pick. The consensus appears to be quarterback, with San Francisco likely deciding between three guys. While nothing was set in stone today, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch had some interesting comments during their press conference regarding their top pick in Thursday’s draft.
Like most expected, Shanahan and Lynch continued to play their cards close to their chest. However, they did give some unofficial insight with their responses to certain questions. Early on in the presser, Shanahan confirmed the team did move up to third to take their next franchise quarterback. Shanahan also said that he felt good “about five guys at three.”
“After going through this, I feel good about five guys at three. … We started with one candidate in mind, but all have gotten better since.”
San Francisco 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan
Presumably, the five quarterbacks unofficially mentioned are Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Trey Lance, Justin Fields, and Mac Jones. With Lawrence and Wilson expected to be gone by third overall and Justin Fields reportedly out of the running, the competition appears to be down to Jones and Lance.
Shanahan also made it clear that the decision at third overall will come solely from the research done inside of the organization. Shanahan stated, “It is so irresponsible to let something like that [social media outrage] affect your decision.”
Shanahan’s Stance on Garropolo
The most telling response from Shanahan came when he was asked about the future of current 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garropolo. When asked if Garropolo would be on the roster come Sunday, Shanahan gave a very noncommital response.
While this leaves the door open for a potential return, it appears likely that the 49ers would move on from Garropolo following the conclusion of the draft. Shanahan also cited Garropolos’ consistent injuries as a reason for the team considering other options.
