The 49ers made some changes offensively, hoping to add a little more life to this unit. They used their first-round pick on Michael Crabtree, who could be a top No. 1 receiver for yeas to come. The 49ers also used the draft to add some depth to their running back position. San Fran used a second-round pick on Glen Coffee, who could be a nice compliment to starter Frank Gore. Coffee is a big back that does a good job of running between the tackles. The 49ers also added receiver Brandon Jones and cornerback Dre' Bly through free agency. Jones gives the 49ers more depth at receiver while Bly could compete for a starting job.

San Francisco lost a few, but the biggest loss was an injury during offseason workouts. Starting cornerback Walt Harris is out for the year with a knee injury, leaving a big hole at cornerback. The 49ers also saw a few key players walk away, including offensive tackle Jonas Jennings and safety Keith Lewis. But these guys weren't huge difference makers, so the 49ers should be able to recover just fine.

With Mike Martz gone, the 49ers should focus the offense around Gore, relying more on the run. The rushing attack should be a strength for the 49ers, especially with Coffee in the mix now. Gore is an elite back with big-play ability in both the rushing and passing games. Coffee could surprise as well. He is a big back that should help lessen the load for Gore. The 49ers should be a run-first team this season and have success in doing so. a fine backup for the 49ers, playing in spot duty.

The 49ers have two elite linebackers, which will be the strength of the defense. Manny Lawson is a great rusher off the edge and top playmaker. Patrick Willis might already be the best inside linebacker in the league. He just makes plays all over the field and rarely seems to be out of position. And we can't forget Takeo Spikes and Parys Haralson, who both do a good job at linebacker and make the 49ers defense a real strength of the team.

Although Shaun Hill seemed to grab hold of the starting quarterback spot last season, we still aren't sold on this position for the 49ers. Hill isn't an exciting option. He'll make some plays, but also will force some throws and lacks top arm strength. Alex Smith will challenge for the starting job, but hasn't been very good since coming into the league. We wouldn't count on a turnaround from Smith. The 49ers still lack that top quarterback, which could hold them back some weeks.

The 49ers are close to getting into the playoffs, but aren't quite there just yet. They still need a true No. 1 quarterback and need to get more consistent play from their receivers. The defense is making strides, though, and the rushing game should be good, which will keep this team in a lot of games, especially in the weak NFC West.