Longtime NFL Media draft analyst Chad Reuter has released his first mock draft of the year, projecting three rounds for the upcoming April event.
Reuter's mock comes on the heels of the 2024 season's conclusion, with the Philadelphia Eagles emerging as Super Bowl champions. What can the 49ers do to move closer to re-establishing themselves as a dominant NFL force? Most expect general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan to prioritize either the offensive or defensive line with their top pick, and Reuter's prediction aligns with that.
The 49ers finished the 2024 season with a 6-11 record, landing the 11th overall pick. Reuter has them selecting Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. with their first-round pick.
"Trent Williams can't play forever," Reuter explained. "Banks could wait his turn and be the third tackle on the Niners' depth chart, or begin his career inside at left guard as a potential replacement for free agent Aaron Banks."
Shifting inside would be a change for Banks, who played exclusively at left tackle during his three seasons with the Longhorns. However, at 6-foot-4 and 320 pounds, there's little doubt that Banks would strengthen a unit that's often overlooked.
Next, Reuter shifts his focus to the defensive side of the ball, projecting the 49ers will strengthen defensive coordinator Robert Saleh's group with their next three picks.
Continuing with bolstering the trenches, Reuter has the 49ers selecting Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams with the 43rd overall pick in the second round—logical, given the team's impending move to part ways with Javon Hargrave this offseason.
In the third round, Reuter has the 49ers adding to the secondary, using their 75th overall pick on Penn State safety Kevin Winston and their 99th overall pick on USC cornerback Jaylin Smith.
With quarterback Brock Purdy set to earn the largest contract in franchise history, the 49ers will face less salary cap flexibility in the coming years. This makes the 2025 NFL Draft crucial in the team's efforts to restock its roster with young talent and maintain competitiveness.
