49ers Eye Clemson Star in Latest Draft Prediction

49ers poised to tackle their pass-rush gap in the 2026 NFL Draft with a strategic pick of versatile Clemson DE T.J. Parker.

The 49ers made some significant moves during the first week of NFL free agency, setting the stage for an intriguing offseason. General Manager John Lynch addressed key areas by signing veteran wide receivers Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, adding depth and experience to the receiving corps. The acquisition of Osa Odighizuwa from the Cowboys brings a versatile three-down defensive tackle to bolster Raheem Morris’ defense.

Linebacker Dre Greenlaw's return is a win for the team, and they've also strengthened their offensive line depth. However, one glaring need remains unaddressed: a pass-rusher. With the 49ers ranking last in the league in sacks, this is a critical area they’ll likely target in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Sitting at pick No. 27, the 49ers have an opportunity to align their biggest need with the best available talent. Let's dive into our latest mock draft, reflecting the recent roster moves during this active free agency period.

  1. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana Maxx Crosby’s excitement is palpable with this pick.
  2. New York Jets: Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State Aaron Glenn is piecing together a formidable defense around Reese.
  3. Arizona Cardinals: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech First-year coach Mike LaFleur focuses on building a strong defense.
  4. Tennessee Titans: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame The Titans aren't shying away from investing in a top-tier running back.
  5. New York Giants: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State John Harbaugh strengthens the Giants' defense with a solid middle presence.
  6. Cleveland Browns: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami Protecting the quarterback becomes a priority for the Browns.
  7. Washington Commanders: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State The Commanders add a crucial offensive threat for Jayden Daniels.
  8. New Orleans Saints: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State A game-changing safety marks a strong start for the Saints.
  9. Kansas City Chiefs: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU Replenishing the cornerback position is key for the Chiefs.
  10. Cincinnati Bengals: OT Spencer Fano, Utah Keeping Joe Burrow protected remains a top priority.
  11. Miami Dolphins: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State Malik Willis gets another weapon to target downfield.
  12. Dallas Cowboys: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee The Cowboys address their top need with a defensive back.
  13. Los Angeles Rams: WR Makai Lemon, USC Lemon teams up with Puka Nacua to create a dynamic receiving duo.
  14. Baltimore Ravens: Edge Rueben Bain, Miami The Ravens focus on reigniting their pass rush.
  15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami Another Miami pass-rusher joins the ranks.
  16. New York Jets: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon Adding offensive playmaking ability is crucial for the Jets.
  17. Detroit Lions: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M Howell and Hutchinson form a formidable pass-rushing tandem.
  18. Minnesota Vikings: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon Thieneman's rising stock lands him in Minnesota.
  19. Carolina Panthers: G Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State The Panthers' inside running game gets a boost.
  20. Dallas Cowboys: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo A second first-round pick reshapes the Cowboys' secondary.
  21. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia Freeling brings long-term stability to the Steelers' offensive line.
  22. Los Angeles Chargers: OT Blake Miller, Clemson Injury woes on the O-line prompt the Chargers to act.
  23. Philadelphia Eagles: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah Lomu’s versatility makes him a valuable asset for the Eagles.
  24. Cleveland Browns: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana Cooper Jr. adds speed and skill to the Browns' receiving unit.
  25. Chicago Bears: Edge Zion Young, Missouri The Bears aim to strengthen their defense with Young.
  26. Buffalo Bills: T Kaydyn Proctor, Alabama Proctor's potential makes him a standout O-line prospect.
  27. San Francisco 49ers: DE T.J.

Parker, Clemson
Parker’s versatility fills a crucial gap for the 49ers, despite a dip in his 2025 performance, his Senior Bowl showcase impressed.

  1. Houston Texans: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State Iheanachor is a rising talent poised to aid the Texans' ascent.
  2. Kansas City Chiefs: DE Keldric Faulk, Auburn Faulk injects energy into the Chiefs' pass defense.
  3. Miami Dolphins: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson Terrell enhances Jeff Hafley’s secondary with his adaptability.
  4. New England Patriots: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M Drake Maye gains a quick, reliable slot option in Concepcion.
  5. Seattle Seahawks: CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina Cisse steps in to fill the void left by Riq Woolen's departure.

New Additions:
Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson; WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M; OT Blake Miller

Dropped Out:
DT Lee Hunter, Texas Tech; LB C.J. Allen, Georgia; WR Denzel Boston, Washington

The 49ers' strategic moves in free agency set the stage for an impactful draft, with T.J. Parker poised to address their pressing need for a pass-rusher. As the draft approaches, the team’s focus will be on rounding out their roster to compete at the highest level.