Should the 49ers draft Keldric Faulk?
Auburn defensive end Keldric Faulk has been sparsely talked about among the national media due to prospect fatigue, but he’s still an elite prospect who would be a perfect fit on the San Francisco 49ers. Faulk’s still a raw player, but his potential, athleticism, and dominance against the run make him an enticing option in round one.
Faulk was viewed as a top prospect before the college football season. He didn’t have a bad season, but didn’t develop enough to become a game-wrecker. He was a cornerstone and leader of Auburn’s defense, but couldn’t anchor the group enough and lead the team to wins. This has led scouts to have the exact same conversations about him, resulting in prospect fatigue. He’s now beginning to fall out of round one in mock drafts. Despite this, he’s likely to hear his name called on the opening day.
Faulk is one of the youngest players in the 2026 NFL Draft at 21 years old. Additionally, he has an ideal frame at 6-foot-6, 276 pounds and nearly 34½” arms. These traits, paired with his otherworldly athleticism, being ranked number nine on Feldman’s Annual Freaks list, are what separate him from other edge rushers.
The 49ers love edge rushers who can consistently set the edge and destroy run plays, which was evident with their selection of Mykel Williams in 2025. While the two are different prospects, Faulk still fits this archetype and is a game-changing presence against the run. Opposing offenses aren’t able to run his way as his staggering power and arm usage make him nearly unblockable. It’s pivotal that he’s double-teamed, or else he will be in the backfield.
While Faulk isn’t a refined pass rusher, the tools are present. He’s not consistently explosive off the line, doesn’t have a pass rush plan, and needs to develop more pass rush moves; yet, he’s shown the willingness to try moves and has the ability to improve. Because of this, any defensive line coach in the NFL will see Faulk and believe he can develop the prospect into a superstar.
While Keldric Faulk won’t be number one on many 49ers fans' draft boards, he’s an excellent prospect who would be a day-one contributor in the NFL. He still needs significant improvement as a pass rusher, but his dominance against the run, frame, and potential make him an intriguing player. Don’t let prospect fatigue ruin the national opinion on Faulk; he’s well worthy of a day-one selection.