49ers Needs: Cornerback

The 49ers secondary has been burned all year long. They need a corner badly. We have faced 4 quarterback's that are in the top 10 in passer rating -- Philip Rivers, Drew Brees, Matt Cassel, and Aaron Rodgers. Those 4 have a 4-0 record against us, and have combined for a score of 124-55. They have completed 84 of 120 passes, for 1,075 yards, with 11 touchdowns and 1 interception. That's a combined QB rating of 124.8. Nate Clements and Shawntae Spencer are fine options for now, but they are getting older and we will need a corner for the future.

The top 5 ranked college cornerbacks:(according to drafttek.com)

1. Prince Amukamara - Nebraska - Sr.
   
2. Patrick Peterson - LSU - Jr.
   
3. Brandon Harris - Miami(FL) - Jr.
   
4. Janoris Jenkins - Florida - Jr.
   
5. Jimmy Smith - Colorado - Sr.

If we are picking top 10, I would take either Amukamara or Peterson, whoever is left. But should both be gone, don't reach on Harris. Either take someone else or trade pack to the mid-teens if they want him. If we go a whole different position in the first round, Jenkins and Smith would be good options in the second. If somehow both Peterson and Amukamara were left when we pick, it would be a tough choice but I'd probably go for Amukamara.

2010 49ers corners:

Nate Clements (Ohio State, 10 years pro, 31 years old)

At 31 years old, he's lost a step, or two. With his contract, there is no way he is back. He is definitely not worth the $7.2 million he would make next year. I expect his contract to be torn up, and a new one to be offered. If not, bye-bye. He's improved from last year. He is one of the best tackling corners in the league. In 2010 he has 3 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, and a sack. I would like him back for one more year, but not with his current contract.

Shawntae Spencer (Pittsburgh, 7 years pro, 28 years old)

He usually takes on the opposing teams #1 receiver. While he is better in coverage then Clements, he consistently misses tackles. He's bounced back strong from a knee injury he suffered 2 years ago. Has 3 interceptions on the year, and a forced fumble.

Tarell Brown (Texas, 4 years pro, 25 years old)

Started the year as the 3rd corner, but was demoted because of his poor play, and when a concussion knocked out Will James he regained his job back and looks like he's playing the best in his career. He's signed through 2013, so I expect him back.

Will James (Western Illinois, 10 years pro, 31 years old)

He's been inactive since a serious week 10 concussion. He's 31 years old so I don't expect him back next year.

Phillip Adams (South Carolina State, Rookie, 22 years old)

The 7th round rookie has gotten a bit more playing time lately. He's the fastest of the 6 corners. He can also return punts. I like his chances of being back next year.

Tramaine Brock (Belhaven, Rookie, 22 years old)

He has been inactive for all but 1 game this year. He hasn't played a snap on defense. The only reason he made the team was because of a great final preseason game performance. He probably won't make the team next year.