Justin Melo of The Draft Network recently released his early 2026 NFL Mock Draft, projecting all 32 first-round picks. In his latest prediction, the San Francisco 49ers address a significant need—but not the one most might expect.
While many mock drafts have general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan targeting offensive line help, Melo sees the 49ers' front office turning its attention to the defensive side of the ball, selecting a pass rusher instead.
Melo projects San Francisco picking at No. 20 overall and adding Oregon defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei, just one year after drafting Mykel Williams in the first round.
"The San Francisco 49ers have sorely missed Nick Bosa," Melo wrote. "Everyone knew Mykel Williams was a multi-year project. The 49ers certainly aren't giving up on Williams, but the need for another edge has been evident since Bosa's season-ending injury."
Nick Bosa suffered a torn ACL in Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals, marking the second of his NFL career and leaving a noticeable void in San Francisco's pass rush.
"Matayo Uiagalelei has the length and mass needed to develop into a quality NFL defender," Melo added.
Uiagalelei (6-5, 272 lb) recorded 10.5 sacks for the Ducks in 2024 and already has four sacks through eight games this season, earning an 81.9 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus—a career best. However, his 35.4 tackling grade could raise some concerns for NFL scouts.
Still, with the 49ers struggling to generate consistent pressure in 2025, adding another edge defender makes sense. San Francisco values dominant play on the defensive line, and if a player like Uiagalelei is available, Lynch and Shanahan may choose to once again delay finding Trent Williams' eventual successor or address the offensive tackle position later in the draft.