CBS Sports analysts Mike Renner and Bryant McFadden shared their thoughts on the San Francisco 49ers' biggest needs heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. While the team could address some of their needs in free agency, there's no doubt the 49ers will look to inject youth into their aging roster through the draft.
Most expect the 49ers to use their top selection—the No. 11 overall pick—to bolster the trenches, taking a cue from the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, who dominated the Kansas City Chiefs with exceptional line play. Renner believes the 49ers will target a defensive lineman, specifically an edge rusher, with their first-round pick.
"I think they need to look defensive line, specifically in the draft, because that's where you find the real impact guys," Renner said on CBS Sports HQ. "Three of [GM] John Lynch's four first-round picks were along the defensive line. That's where he invested early, and without the first-rounders in recent years, after that Trey Lance trade, that's where they've kind of regressed.
"Last year was probably their worst defensive line in years. After Nick Bosa went down, they really did not generate much in the way of pressure. And this is a deep defensive end class. Put all that together, and I'd be really surprised if pick 11 isn't one of these defensive ends in this draft class."
Meanwhile, McFadden, a former NFL cornerback, sees the 49ers addressing the offensive line instead.
"The offensive line is the way to go for me with the San Francisco 49ers, and here's why," McFadden explained. "Their best offensive lineman, Trent Williams, he's still an outstanding player, but he's 36 years old. He's dealt with injuries in past seasons as well. So now, it's about trying to add some depth, and most importantly, talent to that unit because outside of Trent Williams, we saw inconsistencies surface throughout that offensive line.
"So, me personally, trying to get the best out of your quarterback, along with your entire offense, is all about getting prepared to move on from Trent Williams at some point in time, whenever he decides to call it quits. When you look at the talent that could be there, available, you can go get you an athletic, outstanding tackle at the 11th pick."
Lynch and the 49ers' brass will get a closer look at draft prospects this week in Indianapolis as the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off.
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