With multiple third-round picks and a strong draft class, the 49ers can secure immediate impact players and future stars.
The NFL draft is less than a week away and the San Francisco 49ers have higher than usual hopes for a team with their first-round draft order. The increased expectations come from a deep draft and a high volume of middle round draft picks.
As we have noted ad nauseam, the Niners have a surplus of third round picks. It puts the team in position to land not just one but several underrated newcomers in the 2026 NFL draft. That said, the team is in position to add a good player with the No. 27 pick of the draft as well.
ESPN NFL analyst Ben Solak can see San Francisco adding a quality player in the upcoming draft. Solak previewed how the 49ers could make a splash in their first few picks.
"The 49ers fielded the third-youngest defense in the league last year after drafting five consecutive defensive players to kick off the 2025 draft. Injuries marred the season, but San Francisco's defense should leap back into above-average levels should all those young players take a step forward. The Niners still need another speedy outside rusher, as they're currently loaded with big-bodied tweeners on the edge. The end of the first round could be a spot for Malachi Lawrence (UCF) or Cashius Howell (Texas A&M), but I won't be surprised if new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris prefers a player with more versatility as a dropper. Jaishawn Barham (Michigan) is the name to circle at No. 58.
Safety is another spot to consider, as Ji'Ayir Brown has only one year remaining on his deal and Malik Mustapha is always an injury risk given his physical nature at his size. In a dream scenario, one of Dillon Thieneman (Oregon) or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (Toledo) makes it all the way down to No. 27, but that's unlikely. Instead, Treydan Stukes (Arizona) or Zakee Wheatley (Penn State) might be the targets later."
Arizona Wildcats defensive back Treydan Stukes (2) celebrates with defensive back Ayden Garnes (9) after an interception against Arizona State Sun Devils. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesSolak also notes that there is an abundance of offensive tackles in the upcoming draft. He concludes that the Niners should prioritize offensive line, safety and edge rusher while others view wide receiver as a bigger need.
The reality is, San Francisco might be able to add a quality player at all four positions given their abundance of picks.
The Niners might be afforded the luxury of truly drafting the best player available. The team will look to find those elite players when the draft kicks off on April 23 in Pittsburgh.