As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the San Francisco 49ers are honing in on three critical areas of need - offensive line, cornerback, and wide receiver. With just over a week to go, draft experts and analysts have been closely examining potential prospects to bolster these position groups for the team.

Mock drafts have consistently pointed to these three positions as the top priorities for the 49ers. However, the prospects identified as the perfect fits for the team have been constantly changing. The pre-draft assessments have caused player stock to rise and fall in weekly mock drafts, with events like the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, pro days, and 30 visits providing prospects with opportunities to showcase their skills.

As the pre-draft process nears its end, the San Francisco club approaches the April 24 deadline to meet and evaluate potential draft picks. Several outlets have highlighted their ideal picks for the 49ers with only eight days remaining.

In the first round with the 31st overall pick, Patrick Paul, an offensive tackle from Houston, is being touted as a crucial selection for the team. With star left tackle Trent Williams turning 36 this summer and frequently missing games, Paul's strength, length, and agility make him an intriguing prospect. His impressive physical attributes, including 36 1/4-inch arms, 30 bench reps, and a 7.65 three-cone time, make him an appealing choice at 6-7 1/2 and 331 pounds.

Moving on to the second round with the 63rd overall pick, the 49ers are projected to go for Max Melton from Rutgers as a cornerback option. Melton's athleticism displayed at the combine, including a 4.39 40-yard dash, a 40.5-inch vertical jump, and an 11-foot-4 broad jump, has put him on the radar for teams needing cornerback depth. His eight career interceptions at Rutgers further solidify his appeal to the 49ers.

Additionally, ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. suggests another scenario for the team's selections. In his projections, he sees the 49ers opting for Jordan Morgan, an offensive tackle from Arizona, in the first round. Morgan, a veteran left tackle, could potentially switch positions and compete for the right tackle spot against Colton McKivitz.

In Kiper Jr.'s second round prediction, he envisions the 49ers selecting Dru Phillips, a cornerback from Kentucky. This selection would further enhance the team's cornerback depth.

Lastly, an alternative option for the 49ers in the first round is Kool-Aid McKinstry, a cornerback from Alabama. With the run on offensive tackles completed in this scenario, McKinstry could bring stability to the cornerback position for the team. His steady approach and promising skill set make him an appealing option to address one of the few problem areas for the 49ers.

With the clock ticking, the San Francisco 49ers are diligently evaluating potential prospects to strengthen their team in the upcoming NFL Draft. The focus on offensive line, cornerback, and wide receiver positions highlights the team's determination to build a formidable roster for the upcoming season.