Kevin Lynch

-- OFFENSIVE LINE: B+

The line faded at the end with the numerous injuries. Still, the 49ers finished ranked second in sacks allowed per play and sixth in average yards per carry. Not bad.

-- TIGHT ENDS: B

The injury to Eric Johnson in the middle of the season hurt.

-- WIDE RECEIVERS: B+

Terrell Owens proved to be the most explosive receiver in the league. Now the team has to develop a complement to him.

-- RUNNING BACKS: B+

No running back in the league is better at blitz pickup than Garrison Hearst, and fullback Fred Beasley might be the game's best lead blocker. Kevan Barlow is outstanding with the ball in his hands, and the 49ers might try to put it in his hands more often next season.

-- QUARTERBACKS: B

Jeff Garcia wasn't as productive as the previous two seasons and needs to take more chances down the field instead of dumping off the ball. Tim Rattay is a restricted free agent, and the 49ers seem excited about what Cade McNown might be able to do next season.

-- DEFENSIVE LINE: C+

Good run stoppers, but there's a dire need for more pass rush. Depth is a concern here, particularly with Chike Okeafor, Dana Stubblefield, Sean Moran and Jim Flanigan all question marks for next season.

-- LINEBACKERS: B

Linebacker Julian Peterson really developed and Derek Smith and Jeff Ulbrich had quietly strong years. An area with great depth and potential, with the injured Jamie Winborn and Saleem Rasheed back next season.

-- DEFENSIVE BACKS: C-

Injuries figured greatly in the 22nd-ranked pass defense. Nevertheless, this area continues to be a major concern.

-- KICKING/SPECIAL TEAMS: C

Either because of injuries or ineffectiveness, the 49ers changed their kicker, punter and returner this season. The potential is there to be much better next season with return man Jimmy Williams (rehabilitating from knee surgery) and kicker Jeff Chandler.

-- COACHING: B+

The offense could and should be better. But in this age of parity, no one can argue with Steve Mariucci's record the past two years.

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