In many NFL mock drafts that have taken place this offseason, the San Francisco 49ers have been taking wide receivers and tight ends in the first round to surround quarterback Alex Smith with more weapons. However, in two separate CBSSports.com mock drafts, put together by two different analysts, the Niners select an offensive lineman in the first round and a cornerback in the second round.
Rob Rang predicts that the Niners will select Wisconsin guard Kevin Zeitler:
Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin: The Ravens' loss of a stellar interior line prospect could prove to be the 49ers gain, as San Francisco, like Baltimore, could use help up front. Zeitler's size, strength and tenacity would make him a welcome fit in Jim Harbaugh's power-running offense. The former Badger would likely slide right into the starting lineup at right guard, as well as provide an adequate backup option at center.
Dane Brugler also believes the Niners will target Zeitler:
Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin: In the last few years, San Francisco has invested three first round picks on the offensive line and with right guard a need position, it wouldn't be surprising to see the 49ers revert to their old habit of drafting a blocker early. It doesn't always look pretty, but Kevin Zeitler gets the job done as both a run blocker and pass protector, playing with the same killer instinct and competitive drive the NFL has grown to expect from a Wisconsin lineman.
Back to Rang, who selects Montana cornerback Trumaine Johnson for the Niners in the second round:
Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana: Cornerback is not an area of immediate concern for the 49ers but Johnson might offer too much value for the team to overlook at this point in the draft. Based purely on talent, Johnson deserves first-round consideration. Off-field concerns, however, could push him significantly down the board.
And then Brugler selects a corner for the Niners in the second round, but instead of Johnson, it's Oklahoma corner Jamell Fleming:
Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma: Even with Carlos Rogers returning to the Bay, young depth at the cornerback position will be a priority on draft day.
Maybe this means that the Niners are content with Randy Moss catching passes from Smith. For more on the 49ers, head to Niners Nation, and for more mock drafts and draft updates, follow SB Nation Bay Area's StoryStream.