Randy Cross's Insights: How the 49ers Master Player Personnel

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

San Francisco’s Personnel Department Builds Depth by Finding the Right Fits

Randy was asked whether he sees similarities between John McVeigh’s approach and the way San Francisco is currently finding players, particularly when it comes to building the kind of depth that defined the team’s dynasty.

He said he sees it to some extent, although injuries always play a role. He credited the personnel department with doing something that sounds simple but is highly underrated: drafting and signing players who are good at what they do and fit how the Niners want to play.

While that approach might sound obvious, Randy said many NFL organizations do not know how to execute it effectively. He believes San Francisco’s success with different individuals and strong draft picks comes from John Lynch’s personnel group and its ability to identify the right players.

He also pointed to Tina Turner, Eric Wright and Jesse Sapolo as people within the organization who are around Lynch and can influence those personnel decisions.