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49ers Embrace AI for Draft Decisions, Sign Mike Evans

4/22/2026

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Summary

49ers Enhance Draft

The 49ers will use artificial intelligence in their front-office operations for the NFL Draft, according to San Francisco 49ers General Manager John Lynch.
The team has six draft picks, including the 27th overall.
Lynch said AI is essential in today’s landscape, likening it to planning a travel itinerary.
The 49ers signed wide receiver Mike Evans to a three-year, $42.5 million contract to bolster the receiving corps amid George Kittle’s injuries.

History

Historical Context

In 1980, the Oakland Athletics, led by General Manager Billy Beane, pioneered the use of sabermetrics, a data-driven approach to player evaluation, which allowed them to operate on a $41 million payroll. This innovation influenced other teams, including the Boston Red Sox, and laid the groundwork for the widespread adoption of analytics across professional sports, reshaping recruitment and management strategies.

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49ers Enhance Draft

The 49ers will use artificial intelligence in their front-office operations for the NFL Draft, according to San Francisco 49ers General Manager John Lynch.
The team has six draft picks, including the 27th overall.
Lynch said AI is essential in today’s landscape, likening it to planning a travel itinerary.
The 49ers signed wide receiver Mike Evans to a three-year, $42.5 million contract to bolster the receiving corps amid George Kittle’s injuries.

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