Should the 49ers draft Kenyon Sadiq?
The 2026 NFL Draft tight end class performed well at the Scouting Combine; however, Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq stole the show and solidified himself as the top prospect. His athleticism wasn’t questioned before this, but nobody knew the extent of it. His performance in Indianapolis established him as a first-round pick and a premier option for the San Francisco 49ers.
Sadiq put up a historic day at the combine. His dominance began with the vertical jump, where he reached 43.5 inches, ranking second all-time in tight end history. Then, he further pronounced his explosiveness by leaping 11-foot-1-inch in the broad jump, third all-time for the position. These two events were already enough to put him in the record books. However, his day wasn’t over yet.
Despite many top prospects not participating in the 40-yard dash, Sadiq opted in, trusting in his speed. Luckily for him, that was the right decision. He ran a 4.39 40-yard dash, which is the best in tight end history. This capped off an immaculate day for Sadiq and undoubtedly opened the eyes of 49ers scouts.
If the 49ers weren’t interested in Sadiq before, they definitely are now. Head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense clearly benefits from having an elite tight end, as Georgie Kittle has been a franchise cornerstone. However, Kittle, now 32 years old, is aging and is coming off a torn achilles. He will still be a threat in their offense, but likely won’t reach the player he once was. Because of this, investing in his successor may be a wise move.
While working out at the combine, NFL Network aired a player comp for Sadiq that 49ers fans should be familiar with. The former Duck drew a comparison to 2x pro bowler Vernon Davis. Both are athletic freaks and can be used in similar ways at the next level.
Sadiq would be a day-one contributor for the 49ers. He’s a dangerous receiver who is a matchup nightmare for the defense. When in man, it’s impossible to put a linebacker against him, as he is too fast and quick; however, a safety will struggle as well because of the difference in physicality. This will allow quarterback Brock Purdy to have a consistent option who is frequently open. Sadiq would help open up the offense and take part of the load from Christian McCaffrey.
Overall, Kenyon Sadiq was viewed as a first-round prospect prior to the NFL Combine, but left no question after his elite athletic performance. He’s an enticing option for the 49ers who could be the potential successor to George Kittle.