Mock drafts have been working overtime to predict what NFL teams will do in this week's draft. Making that projection process even more difficult is the unpredictability of trades, which can quickly throw mock drafts—and the actual draft—into disarray.
The San Francisco 49ers hold the 11th overall pick and have occasionally been projected to trade up or down. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, general manager John Lynch acknowledged that there have been some preliminary conversations with other teams. However, he noted that such discussions are typical in the days leading up to the draft, as teams assess interest in case a potential opportunity arises.
That said, Lynch isn't expecting a ton of moves—at least, not early on.
"What I believe, I feel like there's a lot of people trying to [look into trading down]," Lynch said, "probably because ... the quality of starters that run deep into this draft. And generally, when everyone wants to do the same thing, there's not as much opportunity.
"So, I think, early in the draft, that's what I feel. A lot of people are going to end up staying put because everyone's trying to do the same thing."
Still, Lynch acknowledged that all it takes is one aggressive move to set off a chain reaction.
"A bunch of different things are going to happen, and we'll see what happens," Lynch added, "but my inclination is, at least in the first round, I think a lot of people are probably going to try [to move down], but when everyone's trying to do the same thing, there's not much opportunity to do so."
Lynch likes the draft's depth
Lynch also expressed optimism about the overall depth of the 2025 NFL Draft, believing it offers the 49ers a solid opportunity to replenish their roster following several offseason departures.
"I like the depth of this draft," Lynch said. "I like that there's a lot of quality starters throughout this draft, and I think it runs deep into Day 2 and even into Day 3. I think, with our process, and knowing what we like, and knowing that really well, who we are and who we want to be, I think there's a lot of starters in this draft."
He admitted that some might argue the top-end talent isn't quite as strong as in previous years, but he values the consistent quality across all seven rounds.
"That's exciting for where we're at," Lynch added.
Desirable edge rusher traits
Several mock drafts have the 49ers targeting pass-rush help in the first round. Naturally, that led one reporter to ask Lynch what traits the team prioritizes in an edge rusher. His response suggests the 49ers are looking for bigger-bodied players to line up opposite star defensive end Nick Bosa.
"You hear us talk a lot about setting edges," Lynch said. "You've got to have the ability to set a firm edge. When we're playing that Wide-9 technique, setting an edge, there's space, and so, you have to be able to take that space away that is initially there. And so, that's something we covet."
Lynch then drew an interesting parallel between edge rushers and wide receivers.
"And then, obviously, you take a look at can they [cause] pressure," he explained, "much like a wide receiver who can put pressure on a corner by coming at him, first and foremost, and threatening him with power and/or speed. Very similar with an edge player, is that they can threaten, and that gets a tackle or any player on their heels."
Lynch also credited and praised the 49ers' coaching staff, particularly defensive line coach Kris Kocurek, for consistently creating a good plan to maximize each player's strengths.