The San Francisco 49ers are making strategic moves in free agency, focusing on bolstering their wide receiver corps and adding an interior pass rusher. With an eye on the draft, there's also buzz around their offensive line, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Trent Williams' future.
As draft day approaches, the 49ers are exploring options for an edge rusher following Bryce Huff’s retirement. This is becoming a hot topic in mock drafts.
Let’s dive into some expert predictions:
Mel Kiper Jr. from ESPN suggests the 49ers might go for an offensive tackle, but not necessarily as a direct replacement for Trent Williams:
- Blake Miller, OT, Clemson: While many might see this pick as grooming a successor for Williams, Miller’s experience is primarily on the right side. Standing at 6-7 and weighing 317 pounds, he could be a solid upgrade over Colton McKivitz. The 49ers have shown flexibility in moving players across the line, so Miller’s versatility could be a significant asset.
Tom Fornelli of CBS Sports shifts focus to defense, highlighting Missouri’s pass rusher:
- Zion Young: Ranked 76th overall, Young is an exciting prospect. His impressive 18.7% pressure rate in 2025 makes him a compelling choice for the Niners, who value competitive edge players. While he has a boom-or-bust profile, his potential upside is hard to ignore.
Daniel Jeremiah from NFL Network sees the 49ers adding a dynamic weapon for Kyle Shanahan:
- Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon: Sadiq’s standout performance at the NFL Combine showcased his elite athleticism. With top-tier speed and jumping ability, he could be a game-changing addition to the 49ers’ offense.
Nate Tice and Charles MacDonald of Yahoo Sports propose another offensive line reinforcement:
- Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State: Despite being a redshirt senior, Iheanachor's journey from JUCO football to a potential first-round pick is impressive. With a background in soccer, his footwork is expected to improve, making him a promising prospect for the 49ers’ O-line.
In a recent mock draft from USA TODAY, the 49ers are projected to pick:
- Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson: Terrell brings a family connection to the NFL, and his potential selection could be influenced by past relationships with coaching staff.
- Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State: His varied mock draft positions highlight the uncertainty but also the intrigue surrounding his potential.
Finally, Pro Football Focus throws another name into the mix with an Alabama offensive tackle:
- Kadyn Proctor: While not pegged for the first round, Proctor is the kind of prospect teams might be willing to take a chance on later in the draft.
As the draft draws nearer, the 49ers have several intriguing options to consider, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Whether they focus on shoring up the offensive line or adding defensive firepower, they’re poised to make impactful decisions.