Quote:I understand your point, but I'd like to put this into perspective.

 

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/

 

The 49ers we have seen over the last three years were built through the draft.

 

However, the last three years of 49ers' contention were preceded by EIGHT (8) consecutive years of .500 football and worse between 2003-2010.  During that time, they had one record of .500 (2009) , one NFL worst record of 2-14 (2004), a 4 win, 5 win, 6 win, and 7 win season.

 

The draft position gained from 2004 enabled them to land QB Alex Smith first overall and RB Frank Gore.

 

The draft position gained from the 4-12 season of 2005 enabled them to draft TE Vernon Davis 6th overall in 2006.

 

The 7-9 record of 2006 gave the 49ers the 11th overall draft pick in 2007, which enabled them to draft Patrick Willis.

 

Other losing seasons led to the drafting of Anthony Davis, Michael Crabtree and Aldon Smith.

 

Every single player I listed were key contributors in their ascent to a Super Bowl team.

 

Yes, winning teams draft well and have a knack for finding contributors later in the draft.  However, it is undeniable the 49ers were aided by superior draft position in the accumulation of talent.

 

I always appreciate the knowledge.  Thanks for sharing the insight above.  I respect your point of view and have missed reading your thoughts the last few weeks.   

 

With that said, I don't think my assertion is off base compared to your assessement.  When considering record and draft spots, I can see your point.  But you must remember my post was based on the OP's question to those that are leaning towards us "tanking" for a specific player.  I've been hearing many well regarded posters as well as out spoken moderators imply or overtly state that securing the #1 pick is the only objective of this team.  I brought up the 49'ers because of thier lack of talent and there continued push for competition. 

 

 

In terms of philosophy and organizational direction, I feel my point still stands.  The 49'ers were in major turmoil, as you have mentioned.  This turmoil allowed them to have high draft picks.  However, I would argue it was not the plan of the organization to "Tank" in order to solidify 'x' draft spot in order to propel the team to contention.  They stayed true to pride and tradition, they muddled through tough times, drafted well while never consciously trying to solidify a higher draft position.

 

Yes they had several years of high draft picks.  But so have we.  You hit and you miss.  But I don't ever recall during the 49'ers lost decade the term "tank" the way I hear on this MB.  And I know that the 49'ers never would try to "suck for Luck" the way the clot ownership did.  That type of direction should not be lauded like some have here.

 

If I have misinterpreted your thoughts feel free to let me know. 

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