Field Yates' latest mock draft for ESPN aligns with expectations for the San Francisco 49ers in the early rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft—reinforcing the trenches. The defensive front suffered significant losses this offseason. At the same time, the offensive line could use upgrades, despite general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan expressing confidence in their current group.
After finishing the 2024 season with just six wins, the 49ers hold the 11th overall pick. Yates projects them selecting Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen in the first round, bolstering a defensive interior that lost Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins.
"The 49ers have major work to do along the defensive line and perhaps a few other spots after losing multiple starters on both sides of the ball this offseason," Yates wrote. "Nolen would be a play-wrecker for them. He is overwhelmingly powerful and explosive, and he could help replace veterans Maliek Collins and Javon Hargrave."
Nolen played one season at Ole Miss after transferring from Texas A&M. In 2024, he recorded 6.5 sacks, a career-high 48 tackles (14 for a loss), and three passes defensed.
"In a league that has put an increased premium on pass-rushing defensive tackles, he would provide San Francisco with a valuable building block," Yates added.
With their second-round pick (No. 43 overall), Yates has the 49ers selecting Minnesota offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery—a potential successor to left tackle Trent Williams.
"San Francisco's search for offensive and defensive line reinforcements will be ongoing, and Ersery could be the heir apparent to Trent Williams (who is turning 37 in July) at left tackle," Yates wrote. "Ersery allowed four sacks over 39 career starts, and his 6-foot-6, 331-pound frame makes it difficult for pass rushers to get around him."
Only one of those sacks came in 2024 when Ersery surrendered 12 total pressures, per Pro Football Focus.
Comments