Tim Kawakami of The San Francisco Standard recently stated that he believes the 49ers are more likely to target a defensive tackle or an offensive skill position in the draft rather than reinforce the offensive line. Historically, the team has prioritized game-changing playmakers over investing heavily in the offensive front.
However, there's one exception. Kawakami noted that the 49ers might consider selecting an offensive lineman if a top-tier prospect, like LSU tackle Will Campbell, unexpectedly falls in the first round. That's exactly the scenario Pro Football Network (PFN) contributor Chris Dodson envisions in his mock draft.
Dodson projects two offensive linemen coming off the board before the 49ers' selection. He has Ohio State's Josh Simmons going to the Miami Dolphins at No. 9 via a trade with the New Orleans Saints, followed by Texas' Kelvin Banks Jr. landing with the Chicago Bears at No. 10.
That scenario would leave Campbell available for San Francisco at No. 11.
"Brock Purdy is about to break the bank after stepping up as an unheralded backup to the backup," Dodson explained. "The 49ers cannot let their QB1 get broken after writing a $50 million a year (or more) check.
"Will Campbell knows about protecting luxury goods at LSU. Campbell has held up against the SEC's best as a left tackle and could move across the line thanks to good footwork and extraordinary power. Draft the LSU alum and let him watch Purdy's blind side for the next decade."
Campbell (6-6, 323) posted a career-high 80.6 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024, allowing just two sacks and 18 pressures over 557 pass-blocking snaps. The LSU standout earned first-team All-SEC honors in 2023 and 2024 and was named a consensus All-American in 2024.
However, his 69.7 run-blocking grade in 2024 marked a career low, contributing to an overall 72.2 offensive grade—also a personal low. If offensive line coach Chris Foerster can refine that area of his game, Campbell possesses all the physical tools to develop into a top-tier NFL blocker.
Campbell could challenge Colton McKivitz for the starting right tackle job while waiting for his chance to eventually succeed future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams.