Depth at every position is obviously something teams strive for, but could it be possible that in Hearst, Beasley, Barlow, Jackson, Smith and Lewis the 49ers have too much depth? Would the money and roster spots of one or both of Jackson and Smith be better used on a linemen or defensive back? Both players have made good use of the opportunities given to them, Smith has proven his versatility, playing at fullback and halfback while Lewis was once the front runner for the starting position last season. It's a heck of a lot of depth and depth is a good thing, but with some weaker areas particularly on the bench the 49ers may need to part way with one or both of the two in order to shore up other areas.

While neither is a particularly hot commodity, the thought of using them as trade bait in the draft seems logical. The 49ers are currently without a third round pick, (though there is speculation that they will receive a compensation pick - possibly a third, for their free agent losses last off-season) and certainly another pick or two would help them shore up other weaker areas particularly since the team is drafting from the 27th position.