Well I for one would love this draft. A guard like that would give sf a people mover, Derrick Moore and Zane Durrant would give SF a very good pass rush rotation. Hurst has significant upside overall and is someone who can stretch the field. York gives the team an intense, fast flowing, sure tackler. Delp is an solid all around TE with upside as well imo.
I've said it a few times, but this team needs to add elite talent, not a bunch more solid guys. Maybe the guys in this mock are elite, but I think starting the 49ers draft at the end of the 2nd round is the approach to use to add depth.
While we may slightly disagree on this. If you really want an elite guy I just dont see 20 elite guys in this class. Mendoza, Love, Bain, Bailey, Downs, Tyson, Reese, Delane, Tate, Sediq, Styles, Iaone, and Terrell are my only elite type players. I just dont see sf being able to trade up for any of them save maybe a LB or Iaone. Who are your Elite guys and which ones do you think could fall to SF or within range of a trade up?
Every year there's a list of "elite" talents, of which maybe 50% end up being good, in a good year. And there's guys drafted later that end up being great.
I'm not trying to predict who the elite players are with this comment. I'm outlining that the chances of finding an elite talent increase the higher you pick. Trading back from 27 to 58 decreases the chances of getting an elite player. It's the strategy you use if you are looking to add depth and some solid starters to the roster.
Sometimes that strategy works out great and you find elite players anyway, as well as having additional picks to find solid starters. Sometimes you get 2022 and 2023 drafts.
FWIW, the 49ers history of drafting under ShanaLynch strongly suggests they don't like moving out of the first round, in fact are more likely to move up, and very much do have a belief in looking to add top end talent with their first round picks (albeit not with great success rate). Only times they've not picked in the first round was when they used those picks to move up to #3 overall.
Lee Hunter looks legit holding up at the point of attack while being double teamed. Could fit into the “elite” category that Scooter speaks of. But doesn’t taking him at 27 seem a bit redundant with Alfred and CJ being drafted for the same role?
Unless Hunter offers pass rush ability, I’d prefer to draft a 1T a bit later in the draft.
I don't see Hunter as a finisher but more of a stunter to set up loops and crashing the pocket as an agent of chaos. Diet Coke version of Vita Vea. He's got a quick first step with a cross face to put pass protections/run blocking schemes in conflict. His lateral movement allows him to work around blockers. I consider him a 3-down defensive lineman.
Agree with razor, though I do also think his pass rushing has room to become a pretty consistent sack guy as well (i.e., finisher). He's not just a run stuffing NT by any stretch.
I feel the same way about Darrell Jackson Jr as well. Not as good a pass rusher as Hunter, which is why he'll go round 2/ 3, but still good at pushing the pocket and an anchor in the run game.
In terms of potentially being redundant with Collins and West, I would say not at all. I think Collins ideally is the 3T - and the coaches said as much after he was drafted. Also, DL is a position that requires a lot of rotation. And as much as I like what I saw from Collins and West, I didn't see anything that convinced me that they both will be dominant pro bowl/ all pro type players. Adding more talent to that room is needed.
I hear you on Collins potentially not developing into a dominant 3T. Personally, I thought West flashed a bit more than he did late in the season. Collin’s has a great motor, but he was lost in the shuffle too often IMO.
Extended playing time this year should hopefully give them both a head start going into next year.
If Hunter brings an upgrade as a pass rusher over what they currently have, As I posted in my reply to Razor, I’d like to see a penetrating 3T added, as well as the obvious need at EDGE.
Razor had a good suggestion in Derrick Moore. Fun seeing him lighting it up at the Shrine bowl practices
Worth keeping in mind that Mykel is also expected to provide some of that pass rush from the 3T on passing downs. Main thing for me in whatever DT they add is they have to be good against the run, plus have some ability to push the pocket, don't need to be a big time penetrator.
Somewhat lengthy, but this is Steve Young's concern for the 49ers in the off-season.
Steve Young's Offensive Line Insights Goal: Top-Tier Unit: Young wants the 49ers to return to their 2019 offensive line level, which he described as one of the best in the league, in the top three. Current State: San Francisco's pass protection was inconsistent in the 2025 season, ranking 18th in the NFL with a 67.0 team pass-blocking grade. The struggles were particularly evident in their playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Trent Williams' Future: Young noted that relying solely on veteran left tackle Trent Williams, who will be 38 years old before the next season and is nearing the end of his career, is not a sustainable strategy. Investment Need: He believes the 49ers front office, which has historically neglected investing heavily in the O-line, needs to spend "big bucks" to secure the line's future.
Two DT's I think will go higher than their current projection (and both are guys razor has mentioned) are looking good at the Senior Bowl - Lee Hunter (I think he goes back half of round 1) and Darrell Jackson Jr (late add to the Senior Bowl, excelled at Shrine Bowl, I think he goes 50-75 range). Caleb Banks I think also goes back half of round 1, and had a good day today at the Senior Bowl.
TJ is the only one I would be willing to make a slight trade up for. He is just so well rounded that he could rotate with Bosa and Mykell and SF would maintain consistency against the run and pass.
I don't think Shanahan will give him away. Is a team willing to give up what it would take? Matt Barrows seems to think a 3rd round pick would get it done. I don't agree.
I just did this draft to get a feel for where players were getting slotted this early in the process. I agree with Scooter that the 49ers likely make the pick and don't move down.
+ Awareness against stunts + Blocking at the second level + Nastiness to his game + Tackle/guard versatility + Over 2,200 career snaps played + 80.0 run block grade in 2025 + Impressive leg drive + Good grip strength
- Eleven career penalties - Inconsistent anchor strength - Lacks ideal foot quickness for a tackle which is why he is projected to potentially kick inside to guard
The only NT prospects since 2015 with a run stop rate < 7.5% and a run defense grade < 75.0 in every college season. Concerning data point for Florida NT Caleb Banks despite his enticing arm length and pass rushing production..
Mac Jones is “definitely on the Vikings radar,” but there are a number of other teams interested, per Jason Harmon. A bidding war would be the best-case scenario.
+ Massive frame + Road grader in the run game + Ability to reset and re-anchor in pass protection + Just 12 pressures allowed in 2025, including the playoffs + Pop in his hands + Durability with over 3,100 snaps + 78.9 pass block grade in 2025
- 19 career penalties with 8 in 2025 - Inconsistent pad level - Not overly athletic - Has played almost exclusively at right guard
+ Locating target when pulling + Has played extensive snaps at both left and right guard + Quickness out of his stance + Allowed just 4 pressures during the 2025 season + 91.6 pass block grade along with an 83.0 run block grade in 2025 + Just two penalties the last two years
- Missed 9 games in 2023 with injury - Sustaining blocks - Fifth-year senior - Arm length (31 3/4”)
He looked good at practices and heard he's met with the Saints. I got him in Round 3 as part of several OL prospects worth looking at in that day 2/3 range.
Hope Shanny can secure his version of what Spags is to Andy Reid, eventually; someone who interviews for head coaching jobs every year, but never really has a chance.
Hoping for Schwartz to be that guy. Not likely, but still hopeful
Mac, If you are looking for a DC who will be around for the long haul, two candidates fit the bill. Bradley or Morris. Schwartz still wants to be a HC and likely is still attractive to other teams.
+ Has logged snaps at every offensive line spot except for center + Physicality shows up at all times + Mauler in the run game + Stays active/looks for work + Over 2,400 snaps played + Anchor strength + Heavy hands
- 9 penalties in 2025 - Sixth-year senior - Sustaining blocks in pass pro - Doesn’t appear to be an elite athlete
Quick out of his stance, but a calm/methodical mover into contact. Rarely off balance, lunging or on the ground. Consistent strain/finish + nasty… Those 3 traits are what OL dreams are made of.
• Depth at iDL/EDGE/DB is impressive. Starters will be found into Day 3 (rounds 4-7).
• Lesser known names took advantage of the week: Gracen Halton, Tyren Montgomery, Sam Hecht, James Brockermeyer, Nate Boerkircher, Nadame Tucker, Jordan Hudson, Adam Randall, Jeremiah Wright, Charles Demmings, Kaleb Elarms-Orr, Carver Willis, Cian Slone, Chris McClellan, Hezekiah Masses, Jalen Farmer, Dametrious Crownover.
• LB class has some flat out dogs — Jacob Rodriguez (Texas Tech) is a cornerstone.
• Day 2/3 WR group showcased well — Fields, Hurst, Virgil, Coleman, Cameron, Brown, Anthony.
• Sam Hecht, TJ Parker, Bud Clark, Kyle Louis, Max Iheanachor, Carver Willis, Rodriguez, Fields, Mello Height — winners of the week.
Well I for one would love this draft.
ReplyDeleteA guard like that would give sf a people mover, Derrick Moore and Zane Durrant would give SF a very good pass rush rotation.
Hurst has significant upside overall and is someone who can stretch the field.
York gives the team an intense, fast flowing, sure tackler.
Delp is an solid all around TE with upside as well imo.
The others I dont know as well.
Thank you. We're of the same mind.
DeleteI've said it a few times, but this team needs to add elite talent, not a bunch more solid guys. Maybe the guys in this mock are elite, but I think starting the 49ers draft at the end of the 2nd round is the approach to use to add depth.
ReplyDeleteWhile we may slightly disagree on this.
DeleteIf you really want an elite guy I just dont see 20 elite guys in this class.
Mendoza, Love, Bain, Bailey, Downs, Tyson, Reese, Delane, Tate, Sediq, Styles, Iaone, and Terrell are my only elite type players.
I just dont see sf being able to trade up for any of them save maybe a LB or Iaone.
Who are your Elite guys and which ones do you think could fall to SF or within range of a trade up?
I got 12 "elite" players in this draft.
DeleteEvery year there's a list of "elite" talents, of which maybe 50% end up being good, in a good year. And there's guys drafted later that end up being great.
DeleteI'm not trying to predict who the elite players are with this comment. I'm outlining that the chances of finding an elite talent increase the higher you pick. Trading back from 27 to 58 decreases the chances of getting an elite player. It's the strategy you use if you are looking to add depth and some solid starters to the roster.
Sometimes that strategy works out great and you find elite players anyway, as well as having additional picks to find solid starters. Sometimes you get 2022 and 2023 drafts.
FWIW, the 49ers history of drafting under ShanaLynch strongly suggests they don't like moving out of the first round, in fact are more likely to move up, and very much do have a belief in looking to add top end talent with their first round picks (albeit not with great success rate). Only times they've not picked in the first round was when they used those picks to move up to #3 overall.
DeleteThis is the last draft I'd try and trade up from 27. I'd rather have the extra darts for this draft, but especially next years.
DeleteIf that's the case, then I think it becomes even more incumbent to try and add at least 1 elite level talent in FA.
DeleteAnd even so, I highly doubt the 49ers trade out of round 1.
I'd be happy with Lee Hunter at 27.
DeleteSame.
DeleteScooter and Razor,
DeleteLee Hunter looks legit holding up at the point of attack while being double teamed. Could fit into the “elite” category that Scooter speaks of. But doesn’t taking him at 27 seem a bit redundant with Alfred and CJ being drafted for the same role?
Unless Hunter offers pass rush ability, I’d prefer to draft a 1T a bit later in the draft.
Above was from me
DeleteI don't see Hunter as a finisher but more of a stunter to set up loops and crashing the pocket as an agent of chaos. Diet Coke version of Vita Vea. He's got a quick first step with a cross face to put pass protections/run blocking schemes in conflict. His lateral movement allows him to work around blockers. I consider him a 3-down defensive lineman.
DeleteAgree with razor, though I do also think his pass rushing has room to become a pretty consistent sack guy as well (i.e., finisher). He's not just a run stuffing NT by any stretch.
DeleteI feel the same way about Darrell Jackson Jr as well. Not as good a pass rusher as Hunter, which is why he'll go round 2/ 3, but still good at pushing the pocket and an anchor in the run game.
In terms of potentially being redundant with Collins and West, I would say not at all. I think Collins ideally is the 3T - and the coaches said as much after he was drafted. Also, DL is a position that requires a lot of rotation. And as much as I like what I saw from Collins and West, I didn't see anything that convinced me that they both will be dominant pro bowl/ all pro type players. Adding more talent to that room is needed.
Razor,
DeleteFair enough. Always enjoyed watching Justin Smith in a similar fashion.
If Lee can creat chaos to free up a defender it’d be prudent to have a pass rushing 3t that can win his 1 on 1 at a high rate.
Bosa - Lee - ? - Williams
Maybe that’s where your pick of Zane Durant come into play. And back it with a FA acquisition
Scooter,
DeleteI hear you on Collins potentially not developing into a dominant 3T. Personally, I thought West flashed a bit more than he did late in the season. Collin’s has a great motor, but he was lost in the shuffle too often IMO.
Extended playing time this year should hopefully give them both a head start going into next year.
If Hunter brings an upgrade as a pass rusher over what they currently have, As I posted in my reply to Razor, I’d like to see a penetrating 3T added, as well as the obvious need at EDGE.
Razor had a good suggestion in Derrick Moore. Fun seeing him lighting it up at the Shrine bowl practices
That's exactly where Durant came into play Mac.
DeleteWorth keeping in mind that Mykel is also expected to provide some of that pass rush from the 3T on passing downs. Main thing for me in whatever DT they add is they have to be good against the run, plus have some ability to push the pocket, don't need to be a big time penetrator.
DeleteMax Iheanachor locked up Moore and got him to throw a punch.😂
DeleteSomewhat lengthy, but this is Steve Young's concern for the 49ers in the off-season.
ReplyDeleteSteve Young's Offensive Line Insights
Goal: Top-Tier Unit: Young wants the 49ers to return to their 2019 offensive line level, which he described as one of the best in the league, in the top three.
Current State: San Francisco's pass protection was inconsistent in the 2025 season, ranking 18th in the NFL with a 67.0 team pass-blocking grade. The struggles were particularly evident in their playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
Trent Williams' Future: Young noted that relying solely on veteran left tackle Trent Williams, who will be 38 years old before the next season and is nearing the end of his career, is not a sustainable strategy.
Investment Need: He believes the 49ers front office, which has historically neglected investing heavily in the O-line, needs to spend "big bucks" to secure the line's future.
Two DT's I think will go higher than their current projection (and both are guys razor has mentioned) are looking good at the Senior Bowl - Lee Hunter (I think he goes back half of round 1) and Darrell Jackson Jr (late add to the Senior Bowl, excelled at Shrine Bowl, I think he goes 50-75 range). Caleb Banks I think also goes back half of round 1, and had a good day today at the Senior Bowl.
ReplyDeleteTwo Edge guys that have really impressed at the Senior Bowl that I think the 49ers will be interested in are Zion Young and TJ Parker.
ReplyDeleteDerrick Moore has also looked pretty good and is another in that mold of big powerful DE with some juice.
TJ is the only one I would be willing to make a slight trade up for.
DeleteHe is just so well rounded that he could rotate with Bosa and Mykell and SF would maintain consistency against the run and pass.
Agreed. I think Young can do the same.
DeleteRazor,
ReplyDeleteAfter looking at your first mock I am assuming you think the 49ers will hold on to M. Jones.
I don't think Shanahan will give him away. Is a team willing to give up what it would take? Matt Barrows seems to think a 3rd round pick would get it done. I don't agree.
DeleteI just did this draft to get a feel for where players were getting slotted this early in the process. I agree with Scooter that the 49ers likely make the pick and don't move down.
Gennings Dunker (6’5 320) Iowa
ReplyDelete+ Awareness against stunts
+ Blocking at the second level
+ Nastiness to his game
+ Tackle/guard versatility
+ Over 2,200 career snaps played
+ 80.0 run block grade in 2025
+ Impressive leg drive
+ Good grip strength
- Eleven career penalties
- Inconsistent anchor strength
- Lacks ideal foot quickness for a tackle which is why he is projected to potentially kick inside to guard
Draft projection: Day two
He's a good get in the 2nd imo. Upgrade at Guard, with the ability to be a swing tackle.
DeleteCarver Willis, OT, WA is a guy to keep an eye on this Saturday.
ReplyDeleteXavian Sorey, LB, Arkansas is worth taking a flyer on late day 3.
ReplyDeleteThe only NT prospects since 2015 with a run stop rate < 7.5% and a run defense grade < 75.0 in every college season. Concerning data point for Florida NT Caleb Banks despite his enticing arm length and pass rushing production..
ReplyDelete🔘 Phil Hoskins, Kentucky
🔘 Caleb Banks, Florida
🔘 Breiden Fehoko, LSU
🔘 Jordon Riley, Oregon
🔘 Shy Tuttle, Tennessee
🔘 Tedarrell Slaton, Florida
🔘 Darius Kilgo, Maryland
🔘 Siaki Ika, Baylor
🔘 Jaquelin Roy, LSU
🔘 Byron Cowart, Maryland
Max Llewellyn, Edge, Iowa is a player to bet on day 3.
ReplyDeleteThe depth of this year's DB class is impressive. There are starters to be found through early Day 3.
ReplyDeleteNadame Tucker DE Western Michigan is another edge I like in round 3/4.
ReplyDeleteMac Jones is “definitely on the Vikings radar,” but there are a number of other teams interested, per Jason Harmon. A bidding war would be the best-case scenario.
ReplyDeleteTop speed reached among all Senior Bowl participants through two days of work:
ReplyDelete1. LSU WR Barion Brown: 20.35 mph
2. Georgia State WR Ted Hurst: 20.33
3. Arkansas DB Julian Neal: 20.22
4. Mizzou WR Kevin Coleman Jr: 20.06
5. Georgia DB Daylen Everette: 20.04
KSU C Sam Hecht has been outstanding! #1 Center.
ReplyDeleteAnez Cooper (6’6 337) Miami
ReplyDelete+ Massive frame
+ Road grader in the run game
+ Ability to reset and re-anchor in pass protection
+ Just 12 pressures allowed in 2025, including the playoffs
+ Pop in his hands
+ Durability with over 3,100 snaps
+ 78.9 pass block grade in 2025
- 19 career penalties with 8 in 2025
- Inconsistent pad level
- Not overly athletic
- Has played almost exclusively at right guard
Draft projection: 4th/5th round
Beau Stephens (6’5 310) Iowa
ReplyDelete+ Locating target when pulling
+ Has played extensive snaps at both left and right guard
+ Quickness out of his stance
+ Allowed just 4 pressures during the 2025 season
+ 91.6 pass block grade along with an 83.0 run block grade in 2025
+ Just two penalties the last two years
- Missed 9 games in 2023 with injury
- Sustaining blocks
- Fifth-year senior
- Arm length (31 3/4”)
Draft projection: 3rd/4th round
What’s the consensus from the blog on Keylan Rutledge, IOL, Georgia Tech?
ReplyDeleteProjects as a day 3 pick and has that dog in him. A bit raw, but is system versatile
He looked good at practices and heard he's met with the Saints. I got him in Round 3 as part of several OL prospects worth looking at in that day 2/3 range.
DeleteThey got him playing some center too.
DeleteThe 49ers have interviewed Raheem Morris, Joe Woods and Gus Bradley for the vacant defensive coordinator job, per Maiocco.
ReplyDeleteHope Shanny can secure his version of what Spags is to Andy Reid, eventually; someone who interviews for head coaching jobs every year, but never really has a chance.
DeleteHoping for Schwartz to be that guy. Not likely, but still hopeful
Mac,
DeleteIf you are looking for a DC who will be around for the long haul, two candidates fit the bill. Bradley or Morris. Schwartz still wants to be a HC and likely is still attractive to other teams.
Coach, aside from the Browns, did Schwartz have any HC interviews this year?
DeleteAr’maj Reed-Adams (6’5 317) Texas A&M
ReplyDelete+ Has logged snaps at every offensive line spot except for center
+ Physicality shows up at all times
+ Mauler in the run game
+ Stays active/looks for work
+ Over 2,400 snaps played
+ Anchor strength
+ Heavy hands
- 9 penalties in 2025
- Sixth-year senior
- Sustaining blocks in pass pro
- Doesn’t appear to be an elite athlete
Draft projection: 3rd/4th round
Bisontis…
ReplyDeleteQuick out of his stance, but a calm/methodical mover into contact. Rarely off balance, lunging or on the ground. Consistent strain/finish + nasty… Those 3 traits are what OL dreams are made of.
Senior Bowl practice:
ReplyDelete• Depth at iDL/EDGE/DB is impressive. Starters will be found into Day 3 (rounds 4-7).
• Lesser known names took advantage of the week: Gracen Halton, Tyren Montgomery, Sam Hecht, James Brockermeyer, Nate Boerkircher, Nadame Tucker, Jordan Hudson, Adam Randall, Jeremiah Wright, Charles Demmings, Kaleb Elarms-Orr, Carver Willis, Cian Slone, Chris McClellan, Hezekiah Masses, Jalen Farmer, Dametrious Crownover.
• LB class has some flat out dogs — Jacob Rodriguez (Texas Tech) is a cornerstone.
• Day 2/3 WR group showcased well — Fields, Hurst, Virgil, Coleman, Cameron, Brown, Anthony.
• Sam Hecht, TJ Parker, Bud Clark, Kyle Louis, Max Iheanachor, Carver Willis, Rodriguez, Fields, Mello Height — winners of the week.
2026 NFL Draft prospects on the rise at the Senior Bowl, per
ReplyDeleteIC Draft:
📈 WR Malachi Fields, Notre Dame
📈 WR Tyren Montgomery, John Carroll
📈 DT Caleb Banks, Florida
📈 QB Taylen Green, Arkansas
📈 OL Delby Lemieux, Dartmouth
📈 QB Cole Payton, North Dakota St.
📈 LB Kyle Louis, Pitt
📈 LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech
📈 DT Gracen Halton, Oklahoma
📈 OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona St.
📈 DT Deven Eastern, Minnesota
📈 RB Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas
📈 WR Reggie Virgil, Texas Tech
📈 LB Xavian Sorey Jr., Arkansas