49ers trade into 22nd pick

Denver and San Francisco have swapped draft picks. San Fran sends their 2nd (#37) and 3rd (#68) round picks to Denver in exchange for a first rounder. It just so happens the 49ers newly acquired pick is right before the Bucs first rounder at 23. Which is bad news for the Bucs.

Most indications are that the Broncos were leaning towards drafting an offensive player, either a receiver or runningback. In fact, the Broncos may have agreed to trade down because they have a feeling USC runningback LenDale White will be available at the beginning of the second round. The 49ers, on the other hand, will most likely be looking to select a defensive player since indications are that they will draft Maryland tightend Vernon Davis with their other first rounder.

For example, Manny Lawson's name has been brought up as a possible selection by the Bucs. Lawson's stock has been rising quickly the last couple of weeks due to impressive workouts, and it's very likely the 49ers would select Lawson at 22. There will be plenty of defensive talent available late in the first round, but chances are that talent pool will be slightly more diminished than it would have been if the Broncos still had that 22nd pick.