Pro Football Network founder Matthew Cannata has released his first mock draft of the year, featuring a comprehensive seven-round projection. Naturally, San Francisco 49ers fans are eager to see his predictions for general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan's moves, particularly at No. 11—the team's first selection following a disappointing 6-11 season.
Round 1: Defensive line reinforcement
Many expect the 49ers to address their offensive line with their first-round pick, while others anticipate a focus on the defensive front. Cannata goes with the latter, projecting San Francisco to select Texas A&M defensive end Nic Scourton at No. 11.
"Nic Scourton isn't perfect, but nobody else in this class possesses his blend of technical prowess, bend, size, and power," Cannata wrote. "He's playing too heavy right now, but losing the unnecessary weight he's currently carrying on his frame should only make him more dangerous as an arc rusher.
"Scourton's pass-rush plan is artwork, and the suddenness and fluidity he already plays with at 280 is terrifying. He'll be one of the youngest players in the class while already possessing nuance far beyond his years."
Scourton recorded five sacks in his lone season with the Aggies, but his standout year came in 2023 at Purdue, where he tallied 10 sacks, earned a career-high 90.9 Pro Football Focus pass-rushing grade, and finished with 17 career sacks.
"Scourton's naturally thick lower half makes him a sturdy edge setter, and there's a chance he'll continue growing into his frame while building a more consistent power element to his game," Cannata added.
Round 2: Secondary gets a boost
With the 43rd overall pick, Cannata has the 49ers staying on defense, this time targeting Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston.
"Maxwell Hairston didn't play many snaps in 2024 because of injury, but he's displayed enough when on the field to potentially command Day 1 draft capital if a team falls in love with his enticing traits," Cannata wrote.
Hairston logged six interceptions over the past two seasons, including an SEC-leading five in 2023.
"Hairston possesses outrageous confidence in his fluidity, agility, and burst at the line," Cannata continued. "He's unbelievably patient against flamboyant releases by receivers to the point where he practically looks bored waiting for them to make their move.
"Although he's definitely lean, we've consistently seen teams throw caution to the wind when it comes to the cornerback's weight, and Hairston isn't even bordering the danger area there."
Round 3: Offensive weapon added
Cannata's projection for the 75th overall pick sees the 49ers bolstering their offense—not on the line, but at wide receiver. He predicts San Francisco will select Iowa State's Jayden Higgins, who posted 87 catches for 1,183 yards and nine touchdowns in his senior year.
"Jayden Higgins is a polished wide receiver known for his route-running precision and reliable hands," Cannata wrote. "He uses his quickness and agility to create separation, consistently making himself a dependable target in critical situations.
"Higgins excels at finding soft spots in zone coverage and has the body control to make tough catches along the sideline. His ability after the catch adds an extra dimension, as he uses his vision and elusiveness to gain additional yardage.
"While improving his release against press coverage would enhance his game, Higgins' consistency and playmaking ability make him a valuable weapon in any offensive system."
Round 3: O-line finally addressed
With the 99th overall pick, a projected compensatory selection, Cannata predicts the 49ers will select Georgia offensive tackle Earnest Greene to finally address the offensive line.
"Earnest Greene III is a powerful and technically sound offensive tackle who excels in both pass protection and run blocking," Cannata wrote. "His strong base and quick footwork allow him to handle a variety of pass-rushing moves while maintaining excellent balance.
"Greene's physicality shines in the run game, where he uses his strength and leverage to drive defenders off the ball and create running lanes. His hand placement and ability to sustain blocks are advanced for his position, showcasing his attention to detail.
"Greene has the tools to be a consistent and dominant force on the offensive line but will need to improve his lateral quickness."
Remaining picks
Cannata rounded out his 49ers mock draft with the following selections:
- Round 4, Pick 112: Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
- Round 4, Pick 138: Miles Frazier, OG, LSU
- Round 4, Pick 139: Nick Nash, WR, San Jose State
- Round 6, Pick 189: Isas Waxter, CB, Villanova
- Round 7, Pick 228: Jalen Rivers, OT, Miami (FL)
- Round 7, Pick 255: Jailin Walker, LB, Indiana