SANTA CLARA – Trent Baalke gave draft sleuths across the country a tantalizing clue last week about the team's 30th overall pick when the 49ers' general manager said he's eying one player in particular he's confident will be available.
But even with a hint, it's hard to guess.
While the need for an offensive tackle in 2010 and a quarterback last year helped narrow the list of draft candidates, San Francisco's stacked roster this year means it can go in many directions.
All 11 defensive starters from 2011's standout unit are back.
And newcomers Randy Moss and Mario Manningham seemingly fill holes at wide receiver.
"I think you always try to go through the offseason and take care of as many of the needs as possible," Baalke said.
"That's part of free agency – addressing needs. As your team gets deeper, you hope to have fewer needs, which should allow you to concentrate on the best-player-available formula."
The only position in doubt at the moment is right guard. But there already is plenty of competition.
Youngsters Daniel Kilgore and Mike Person will vie for the starting role, and veteran Alex Boone could get a shot, too.
Still, the age and contract status of the team's veterans – as well as which college players have visited – suggest the 49ers will focus on wide receiver, guard and running back.
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