49ers sit mid-pack in ESPN’s post-draft power rankings

The San Francisco 49ers remain ranked No. 15 in ESPN's latest NFL power rankings following the 2025 NFL Draft. Adding 11 draft picks and several undrafted free agents to bolster the roster wasn't enough to help the team move up from its previous spot in ESPN's March rankings—also at No. 15.

So, which position group saw the most improvement during the draft? That would be the defensive line. The 49ers invested three selections in that area, including the No. 11 overall pick used to draft Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams.

"The 49ers didn't spend much in free agency, but the defensive line should regain its former dominance if their draft picks pan out," ESPN's Nick Wagoner wrote. "San Francisco used selections on edge rusher Mykel Williams at No. 11 and two defensive tackles (Alfred Collins at No. 43 and CJ West at No. 113)."

The team hopes this infusion of young talent will help fortify a defensive front that lost key contributors Javon Hargrave, Maliek Collins, and Leonard Floyd this offseason. With limited moves in free agency, the 49ers are counting on the draft to rebuild the group with younger and more cost-effective talent.

"All three might be starters in September after the Niners said goodbye to edge Leonard Floyd along with tackles Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins in March," Wagoner added. "That rookie trio joins stalwart edge Nick Bosa, giving the 49ers some much-needed juice at a position group they've long prioritized."

Elsewhere in the NFC West, the defending division champion Los Angeles Rams come in at No. 7 in the ESPN power rankings, while the Seattle Seahawks rank No. 16 and the Arizona Cardinals sit at No. 22.