Draft The QB Position- 01/23/2000
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In 1997 the 49ers made one of the biggest mistakes of the franchise’s history. That mistake was selecting Jim Drukenmiller in the first round of the draft. Drukenmiller was touted at the future QB of the 49ers, but as a second stringer he improved little and did even less. The 49ers quickly ended their relationship with Drukenmiller at the beginning of this past off-season, after realizing the previous year that Drukenmiller was not their man, and having to sign Ty Detmer was a back up instead. This past off-season, the 49ers signed Jeff Garcia, who took over the reigns of the 49ers when Steve Young went down. Garcia started off decently but his stock seemed to plummet as the season went on. Finally he was re-introduced to the bench until he would emerge 4 games later as a capable competent QB. Garcia may or may not have what it takes to be the 49ers future QB, but in the last half of the season he did some admirable things. With this uncertainty though, one can be pretty sure the 49ers will be looking to draft a QB to give Garcia some pressure, or to take over the franchise in the next few seasons.

This years quarterbacks are not as talented as the past season, but should still produce some very capable players. Next season should provide a deeper draft at this position never the less many of the QBs currently available will benefit greatly from the coaching at the pro level.

Chad Pennington of Marshall is a senior that stands at 6-3, 220. Pennington is by far and away the best QB in the draft and would get some competition only from Drew Breese who will remain in college for one more season. He is possibly the only QB that will go in the first round, but if he drops to the top of the second the 49ers will almost definitely select him. Pennington lacks the big arm but is very accurate and a good decision maker. He is also the most advanced of the QBs out there with the ability to look off the safety. Pennington needs to work on a quicker release. Passing efficiency actually increased even with the loss of Randy Moss this past season.

Chris Redman is probably the number 2 QB in the draft. Out of Louisville this senior is 6-3 220. Redman has a great arm, and throws with zip on the ball. Redman is not likely to be selected by the 49ers, as he resembles Jim Drukenmiller in his style of play. The 49ers would prefer a more mobile QB.

Giovanni Carmazzi of Hofstra is a senior that stands, 6-2, 215. Carmazzi's stock has rise over the course of the season, and could be available in the later rounds. The 49ers like his mobility and Carmazzi also has a strong arm. At the combine Carmazzi looked unimpressive though throwing the ball behind his receivers. On the last day Carmazzi seemed to look better.

Tee Martin, of Tennessee is a senior that stands at 6-2, 215. Martin has the physical tools to be a success at the pro level. He combines strength and agility with good decision making and a strong arm. Martin has good instincts but will benefit greatly from the coaching at the next level.

Tim Rattay of Louisiana Tech a senior standing at, 6-1, 200. Rattay is a good passer with a fine arm and quick delivery. He makes good decisions under pressure and has the intangibles to make it in the NFL. He does need to work on his accuracy and would benefit from coaching at the next level as well as some learning time on the bench.

Tom Brady of Michigan is a senior that stands 6-4, 220. Brady is a good decision maker and comes up big in key situatuins. Brady lacks the large arm but has the mobility to get time in the pocket. Brady is accurate but needs to work on a quick release and his long ball. Will benefit from more coaching and time on the sidelines.

Marc Bulger of West Virginia is a senior standing at 6-2, 210. Bulger is one of the toughest players in the league but suffered from a throwing hand injury at midseason. Bulger has a nice arm and mobility to make people miss. Bulger is a very rough QB and will need refinement before making it in the pro level.
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