What Kyle Shanahan Wishes the 49ers did in the NFL Draft

There was one position that Kyle Shanahan wishes the 49ers could've targeted in the NFL draft.

Feb 6, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan speaks during a press / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Kyle Shanahan was satisfied with the group of players that the San Francisco 49ers drafted this year.

Of course, any and every head coach believes that at the time. It's not like they are going to be critical or negative about it. However, there was something that Shanahan wishes the 49ers did in the NFL draft.

"Would've loved to add a tight end, just didn’t work out that way.” Shanahan said.

Adding a tight end may seem strange initially for the 49ers. George Kittle is still an impact player and they drafted two tight ends last year. It doesn't seem like the 49ers would or should look to add to the position since it has been stockpiled.

But the 49ers made it clear during free agency that they are not happy with the position. That is why they tried to sign restricted free agent Brock Wright from the Detroit Lions. Since that failed, the draft is where the 49ers looked for one, but it wasn't rich with talent at the position.

So, the 49ers have to try to develop the guys they have currently. Cameron Latu and Brayden Willis will be the ones they are looking for to step up. It should ideally be Latu since he was drafted in the third round last year. He should be the primary backup, but Shanahan isn't gifting him anything.

"We’re looking at all the tight ends. He hasn’t been out here yet. So, you know, we like guys to practice first.” Shanahan said.

Yikes. Harsh reality, but true words from Shanahan. Then again, he is the one who chose to draft Latu, so the failure so far falls on him. Let's see if anyone on the roster can develop to be a serviceable secondary to Kittle.