The San Francisco 49ers have several options heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. They could address the offensive line, as ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. projects with the selection of Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. They might focus on bolstering their defensive front, adding an interior force or a dynamic edge rusher. Or, as seen last year with their surprise selection of wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, the team could go in a completely unexpected direction.
Two CBS Sports contributors, however, agree on one thing: the 49ers should reinforce their defensive line. Interestingly, each has the team selecting a different player to do so.
Josh Edwards has consistently mocked former Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart to the 49ers with the 11th overall pick, a trend that continues in his latest mock draft.
"The interior defensive line has fallen off in recent years and an injury to Javon Hargrave exacerbated those issues," Edwards wrote. "Shemar Stewart will hopefully reinvigorate that unit and give it some life alongside Nick Bosa."
Meanwhile, Chris Trapasso envisions the 49ers addressing the edge position, projecting former Tennessee pass rusher James Pearce Jr. as the pick. Trapasso has consistently mocked Pearce to San Francisco since December.
"James Pearce Jr. is a long, bendy edge rusher with elite-level speed-to-power conversion and plenty of room to grow into his frame in the NFL," Trapasso wrote. "Running mate for Nick Bosa."
The 49ers will be transitioning to a different defensive coordinator for the third consecutive season, hoping for a reunion with Robert Saleh. While the defense boasts plenty of talent, Edwards and Trapasso clearly believe that strengthening an underperforming defensive line is crucial for sustaining future success.