With free agency set to kick off, draft analysts Max Chadwick of Pro Football Focus and Garrett Podell of CBS Sports released their latest mock drafts before the chaos begins. Each projects the San Francisco 49ers taking a different approach with the No. 11 overall pick.
Chadwick envisions the 49ers reinforcing their underperforming offensive line, selecting Missouri tackle Armand Membou in the first round. This move could provide an immediate upgrade at right tackle over Colton McKivitz while also securing a potential long-term successor to Trent Williams on the left side.
"Following an outstanding junior year and combine, Membou looks like a top-15 lock," Chadwick wrote. "He slots in perfectly as San Francisco's right tackle and is an excellent fit in Kyle Shanahan's zone-heavy scheme. Membou was one of two FBS tackles this past season to earn 85.0-plus PFF grades both as a pass blocker and a run blocker."
Most expect the 49ers to prioritize either the offensive or defensive line with their first pick, as both remain among the team's most significant needs. However, Podell takes a different approach, predicting that general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan will look to replace cornerback Charvarius Ward, who is expected to depart in free agency.
Podell has the 49ers selecting Michigan cornerback Will Johnson at No. 11, adding a potential lockdown defender opposite Deommodore Lenoir.
"Top cornerback Charvarius Ward is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and the 49ers need a legit CB1 with all the receiver talent out in the NFC West: Puka Nacua, Marvin Harrison Jr., Davante Adams and Jaxon Smith-Njigba come to mind," Podell explained. "Will Johnson, whose 31.0 passer rating when targeted was the second best in college football since 2022 (minimum 100 targets), fills a big need."
San Francisco is projected to have 11 selections in the upcoming draft, including four picks in the first three rounds.
