San Francisco 49ers: Judging the 2014 Draft

Round 2, Pick #57: Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State

Dec 7, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Carlos Hyde (34) pumps up the crowd prior to the 2013 Big 10 Championship game against the Michigan State Spartans at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Once again, another head scratcher. But this one actually makes quite a bit of sense. Frank Gore is at the end of his career, Kendall Hunter is talented but might leave for more playing time/money somewhere else, LaMichael James is gone as soon as his contract allows him to be, and Marcus Lattimore is still a question mark after his injuries. This pick is for the future. Hyde was regarded by most as the best running back in the draft. The 49ers got great value for him by picking him late in the second round. They now have an excellent bruiser type running back to replace some of Anthony Dixon’s role, and take over for short yardage situations. If Lattimore shows that he is back to his old self, then the combination of Hyde and Lattimore is one to be feared.

Need: B
Value: A