The San Francisco 49ers are making waves this offseason, and while fans are excited about their recent free-agent signing, there's still some business to handle with Trent Williams. With the draft around the corner, let's dive into the 49ers' 2026 NFL Mock Draft roundup following the NFL Combine.
The 49ers have bolstered their wide receiver corps by bringing in Mike Evans, but the job isn’t done yet. They’re still looking to refine their receiver room and address other key areas like guard, edge rusher, and safety.
So, how might the draft unfold for them? Here's what the experts are predicting.
Even with Evans in the mix, the 49ers are eyeing additional talent. Evans' age means he’s not a long-term solution, but his experience could be invaluable for younger players like Cooper.
Crean highlights Cooper’s versatility, which could make him a standout choice for the 49ers. “Cooper is a jack-of-all-trades whose athleticism has surprised many,” Crean notes. “While he may not be a surefire WR1, he could seamlessly step into roles similar to Juwan Jennings and Brandon Aiyuk, drawing comparisons to former 49er Deebo Samuel.”
With a 4.43-second 40-yard dash at the combine, Cooper’s speed is a major asset. Wilson points out, “The future of Jauan Jennings in San Francisco is uncertain, and Brandon Aiyuk might be moving on. While there’s also a need at guard, Cooper Jr. fits the mold of a Kyle Shanahan receiver.”
Bleacher Report's Dame Parson believes Cooper’s skills make him hard to overlook. “Cooper excels in run-after-catch scenarios, boasting impressive speed and body control,” Parson explains.
“His build and abilities align perfectly with Shanahan’s system and complement Brock Purdy’s strengths. Cooper can thrive both in the slot and outside, quickly becoming a favorite target for Purdy.”
Justin Melo from Sports Illustrated emphasizes the need for offensive weapons. “KC Concepcion brings explosive playmaking, elite quickness, and run-after-catch prowess,” Melo writes. “Shanahan could creatively utilize Concepcion to generate significant gains.”
Pro Football Focus’ Trevor Sikkema sees the need for dynamic players as George Kittle ages. Sadiq could be that player if available at pick No.
- “Sadiq’s athleticism is off the charts, evidenced by his 4.39-second 40-yard dash and 43.5-inch vertical at 241 pounds,” Sikkema notes.
“His physical gifts make him a potential game-changer in Shanahan’s offense, with or without Kittle.”
Dane Brugler from The Athletic suggests that the 49ers might have anticipated their move for Evans. With talk of a possible Trent Williams trade, picking Lomu makes sense.
“Lomu’s continued strength development could prime him to succeed Trent Williams at left tackle,” Brugler writes. “His footwork and control hint at a promising future.”
These mock drafts were crafted before Evans' signing, so the landscape could shift, especially if the 49ers secure Jauan Jennings. Running the PFF Mock Draft simulator suggests the 49ers might target an offensive lineman, like Clemson's Blake Miller, which aligns with the need for a solid line. Alternatively, Clemson edge rusher TJ Parker could also be on their radar.
The 49ers are poised to make strategic moves, and as the draft approaches, their choices will shape the team’s future. Whether they focus on immediate impact players or long-term development, the pieces are in place for an exciting season ahead.