NFC West Notes: 49ers, Cardinals, Rams

49ers

49ers second-year WR Dante Pettis is expected to step into a starting role in 2019. 

“I have big expectations for Dante,” HC Kyle Shanahan said via NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco. “We did before we drafted him. We had it throughout this year, and we expect him to continue to get better. I think he went through the normal rookie-type ups and downs that a lot of them do as receivers.  I expect him to come in (this) year and be even better. He’s a guy who can play all three of the positions. He’s also a good returner, and we’re very excited that we have Dante.” 

Maiocco says that unless there’s an opportunity to trade for WR Odell Beckham, he expects the 49ers to turn to the draft to find a complement across from Pettis. 

Cardinals

NFL Media’s Bucky Brooks mentions that among the scouts and decision-makers he talked to, the general feeling is that the Cardinals wouldn’t get much more than a third-round pick for QB Josh Rosen. 

“Talent-wise, he’s a first-rounder,” said an AFC assistant general manager. “However, I still have some of the same concerns about him that I had when he was coming out. I’m guessing a team will give up a second- or third-round pick for him because he has a cost-controlled contract for the next three years. … However, how many teams did the deep dive on the quarterbacks last year and really know the kid?  Remember some quarterback-needy teams passed on him last year.”

Brooks says the general feeling is that Rosen makes more sense as a developmental quarterback than an immediate starter.  He identifies the Chargers, Patriots, Giants, Saints and Dolphins as potential trade destinations. 

Rams

• According to Connor Hughes, the Rams would like to re-sign free agent DE Dante Fowler Jr. 
• Dan Graziano thinks the Rams will re-sign Fowler and let DT Ndamukong Suh depart in free agency. 
• From there, Graziano expects the Rams to look for some running back support for Todd Gurley and work to rebuild their offensive line after parting ways with Rodger Saffold and John Sullivan.