49ers Add Nick Marsh in Recent Mock Draft

Indiana wide receiver Nick Marsh was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in Gilberto Manzano's latest 2027 NFL Mock Draft at Sports Illustrated. Marsh’s combination of physicality, agility, and route running makes him an intriguing prospect who could be the 49ers’ next franchise receiver.

It’s far too early for any of these mock drafts to be accurate. Countless things will change during the season, making it impossible to predict. But that doesn’t make them worthless. On the contrary, they are valuable resources for fans to help identify talented prospects who could resurface next offseason. So, don’t think of this as a forecast for next April, but as a reminder to watch Marsh.

That said, Marsh is a battering ram at receiver who pairs elite physicality with shocking agility and quickness for someone his size. Manzano notes this in his article and highlights how he could solidify himself as a dominant X receiver with the Hoosiers.

“Not only do the 49ers need to get younger, but they also need to add dependable players at wide receiver,” Manzano wrote. “Marsh has the size and skills to be one of the nation’s best perimeter receivers. After starting his collegiate career at Michigan State, the 6'3", 213-pounder could have a dominant junior year in his new surroundings.”

Manzano includes how Marsh, while impressive at Michigan State, couldn’t establish himself as a premier receiver in the Big 10 and is primed for a breakout season in Bloomington. He’s coming off a solid 2025 campaign with 58 receptions for 662 yards and six touchdowns. He will pair with Charlie Becker to form arguably the best receiver tandem in the nation.

Marsh’s strength separates him from other top receivers in the nation. He can box out cornerbacks and highpoint the ball. Additionally, he’s mastered the ability to subtly create separation by pushing off the defender, expertly walking the line to avoid a penalty. Then, he’s dominant after the catch, barreling over his competition to create extra yards.

Beyond this, Marsh is an excellent route runner for someone his size. He understands how to stem defenders and thrives at changing direction by quickly sinking his hips. His footwork needs improvement in certain situations, but he’s shown the ability to create ample separation against man coverage.

The 49ers' wide receivers are talented. However, injuries have plagued them, highlighted by Ricky Pearsall’s season-ending surgery and Mike Evans’ recent issues. As a result, it makes sense to invest in the unit and give Brock Purdy another dynamic weapon. If they do, Nick Marsh should be a clear target. He would be an ideal fit in Kyle Shanahan’s offense and could elevate the group for the foreseeable future.