Shanahan gambles on system fits over raw talent in a seemingly underwhelming draft class. Can these unconventional picks become the 49ers' next hidden gems?
The San Francisco 49ers wrapped up the 2026 NFL Draft with eight selections in a class that, on its surface, looks pretty underwhelming. After trading out of the first round entirely, John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan leaned heavily into prospects who often sat much lower on consensus big boards but fit the specific prototypes required for the 49ers' systems.
We checked in on Dane Brugler's draft guide, 'The Beast,' over at The Athletic to get the lowdown on the prospects San Francisco selected. We also jotted down our own thoughts on each player and what their selection means for the roster moving forward.
It's important to note that draft grades are a reaction. They are less about projecting a player's Hall of Fame probability and more about how the team found value and filled needs. That said, here is the breakdown of the 49ers' 2026 haul:
Round 2, Pick 33 | WR De'Zhaun Stribling, Ole Miss
Expert analysis: "Stribling isn’t the most well-rounded in terms of his route success, but he is a big-bodied athlete with strong ball skills and a pro mindset. He has the talent and competitive toughness to settle into a WR2/3 role."
My quick thoughts: With Brandon Aiyuk’s future in question and Jauan Jennings gone, the Niners needed size. Stribling is a physical blocker who fits the Shanahan mold, but taking him at 33 over guys like Denzel Boston feels like a massive gamble on "fit" over "talent."
Grade: C
Round 3, Pick 70 | DE Romello Height, Texas Tech
Expert analysis: "There aren’t many edge rushers with Height’s slender size profile who find sustained NFL success, but his twitchy get-off and rush movements can be weaponized... He projects as a sub-down designated pass rusher."
My quick thoughts: Height doesn't need to set the edge against the run, he just needs to fly around and get after the quarterback. Given the injuries to Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams last year, you can never have enough "heat-seeking missiles" on the edge.
Grade: B-
Round 3, Pick 90 | RB Kaelon Black, Indiana
Expert analysis: "Black runs with light feet and punches above his weight class... his ability to prove himself as a pass catcher will be critical to carving out a part-time role."
My quick thoughts: It’s becoming an annual tradition for Kyle Shanahan to reach for a running back in the third round. While Black is tough, passing on higher rated backs to take a player many saw as a late Day 3 talent is frustrating.
Grade: F
Round 4, Pick 107 | DT Gracen Halton, Oklahoma
Expert analysis: "Halton moves with big-man twitch and his initial quickness and closing speed can be weaponized. A part-time role that keeps his battery charged will be his best NFL fit."
My quick thoughts: This might be the steal of the 49ers' draft. Halton provides much more pass rush "pop" from the interior than the tackles San Francisco took in the previous draft.
Grade: B
Round 4, Pick 127 | OL Carver Willis, Washington
Expert analysis: "Willis is at his best sealing and finishing in the run game... He projects as a backup swing lineman, with the upside to be more."
My quick thoughts: At 291 pounds, Willis is light for an NFL tackle. Expect a move to guard where his lack of length is hidden and his mobility in the zone run game can shine.
Grade: D
Round 4, Pick 139 | CB Ephesians Prysock, Washington
Expert analysis: "Prysock has rare physical traits that are hard to find at the position... He will appeal to both press-heavy and zone-based schemes as a developmental dart throw."
My quick thoughts: You can't coach 6’4” at cornerback. He’s raw and prone to penalties, but as a mid-round project, the ceiling is high enough to justify the pick.
Grade: C-
Round 5, Pick 154 | LB Jaden Dugger, Louisiana
Expert analysis: "Dugger is an ascending player with a blend of size and reactive athleticism worth developing on the back end of an NFL roster."
My quick thoughts: He’s a classic 49ers linebacker who’s athletic and rangy. With Fred Warner coming off an injury, Dugger provides essential special teams floor and defensive depth.
Grade: C
Round 5, Pick 179 | OL Enrique Cruz Jr., Kansas
Expert analysis: "Cruz is still green in areas... but the encouraging play on his 2025 tape gives NFL teams optimism. He could be an interesting Day 3 flier for a team running a zone scheme."
My quick thoughts: He tested in the 90th percentile for athleticism. While he won't start in Year 1, he’s the kind of project you want to stashed behind an aging Trent Williams.
Grade: D
Overall Class Grade: D+
The Verdict: While analysts like Chad Reuter (A-) were kind to the 49ers for their trade down strategy, most industry experts (PFF, Sporting News, and The Ringer) viewed this as a reach heavy class. By punting on the first round, the 49ers missed out on blue chip talent to fill their roster with "system fits" and developmental projects. If Stribling and Height aren't immediate contributors, this class could be a significant setback for a veteran roster whose Super Bowl window is under immense pressure.