NFL.com draft analyst Eric Edholm recently released his second mock draft of the year, suggesting that the San Francisco 49ers could address multiple defensive concerns with a single selection. After losing key contributors this offseason, including linebacker Dre Greenlaw and pass rusher Leonard Floyd, the team will look to the 2025 NFL Draft to rebuild and replenish its roster.
San Francisco finished last in the NFC West last season, with just six wins, marking the team's first playoff miss since 2020. As a result, the 49ers hold the 11th overall pick, and Edholm predicts they'll use it to select Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker.
"The 49ers are now without LB Dre Greenlaw and edge Leonard Floyd; technically, Walker can help at both spots," Edholm wrote. "Finding his exact role and position will be key, but the dynamic Georgia defender can be a traditional off-ball linebacker on typical run downs and rush the quarterback in passing situations."
In 2024, Walker posted 60 tackles (11 for a loss), 6.5 sacks, and two passes defensed over 14 games, per Sports Reference, earning the prestigious Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker.
"His career snap count is split between edge and linebacker, and his leadership is famous in the Georgia building," wrote Edholm's colleague, analyst Lance Zierlein, in his scouting report. "He's still working to fine-tune his instincts and efficiency as an off-ball linebacker but has the take-on and closing burst to become a productive pro at that spot."
Throughout his college career, Walker accumulated 89 tackles (19 for a loss), 12.5 sacks, three passes defensed, and one forced fumble.
Linebacker and pass rusher are just two of the many needs the 49ers must address in the draft. The team also needs to strengthen the interior of its defensive front, potentially add a defensive back, shore up offensive line depth, and possibly add a receiver.
With the 2024 season's disappointing finish, it will be crucial for the 49ers to make the most of their draft picks to bounce back in 2025.