But the 49ers might have some options in this year's draft, especially if one of the top two quarterbacks is not selected after the first nine picks on April 25.

The 49ers might have genuine interest in selecting a quarterback in the first round of the draft. Or they might be trying to give the appearance that they're interested in a quarterback in hopes of creating some trade interest.

It would not be a great shock if the 49ers took a quarterback in the draft. After all, the club attempted to sign free-agent quarterback Kurt Warner and showed initial interest in trading for Jay Cutler.

Alex Smith and Shaun Hill are currently set to compete for the starting job, with veteran Damon Huard as the No. 3. The 49ers have showed interest in Southern California quarterback Mark Sanchez, whom the Niners hosted for a visit at the team's facility in Santa Clara, Calif.

The 49ers also met with Kansas State quarterback Josh Freeman, who also is expected to be selected in the first round of the draft.

Sanchez seems the most likely player to be selected at No. 10 -- if he lasts that long. Sanchez started only 16 games during his college career, which might turn off some teams from selecting him high in the first round.

"It works both ways," 49ers coach Mike Singletary said. "No. 1, you're happy that the kid hasn't taken a lot of hits. He's fresh. But on the other hand, how many games do you need? If a kid has it, he has it. If he doesn't, he doesn't. He can play 10 years, if he doesn't have it, he doesn't have it."

The 49ers also met with Ball State quarterback Nate Davis, who is expected to be selected somewhere in the middle rounds.