Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network and Mike Renner of CBS Sports recently released their latest mock drafts, with each predicting a different direction for the San Francisco 49ers' 11th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While most analysts expect the team to focus on either the offensive or defensive line, these mock drafts offer a glimpse into the two contrasting strategies.
Fowler projects the 49ers to strengthen their offensive line by selecting Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons.
"When healthy, Josh Simmons was a dominant force on the left side for the Buckeyes," Flowler explained. "In this situation, Simmons can play RT right away while also serving as the heir apparent to Trent Williams on the opposite side."
Fowler envisions Simmons replacing right tackle Colton McKivitz, and eventually taking over for Williams, who will be 37 at the start of the 2025 season. However, recent news involving Deebo Samuel could push the 49ers in a completely different direction.
"This could also be a spot for GM John Lynch to add a WR after granting Deebo Samuel the right to seek a trade," Fowler added.
Renner, on the other hand, has the 49ers focusing on defense by bolstering their pass rush with Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams. Watching the Philadelphia Eagles dominate the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX with relentless pressure could further motivate the 49ers to reinforce their defensive line.
"John Lynch's first four first-round picks as 49ers GM all came in the trenches," Renner explained. "While he's taken only Trey Lance (No. 3 overall in 2021) and Ricky Pearsall (No. 31 overall in 2024) in the first round since, Lynch looks poised to return to the defensive line of scrimmage that saw a downturn last fall."
What makes Mykel Williams an ideal fit for the 49ers' once-dominant front?
"Mykel Williams is the kind of athletic marvel who defensive line coach Kris Kocurek could work magic with," Renner wrote.