Mike Renner released his latest 2026 NFL mock draft for CBS Sports, and he has the San Francisco 49ers addressing the interior of the offensive line in the first round. Specifically, Renner projects head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch to target a long-term replacement for left guard Spencer Burford, whom he views as a weak point along the unit.
Among San Francisco's starting offensive linemen, Burford ranked last in several key Pro Football Focus metrics, including offensive grade (58.9), run-blocking grade (62.6), and pass-blocking grade (48.5).
In Renner's projection, the 49ers select Penn State offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane with the No. 26 overall pick.
"Spencer Burford has been a pain point in pass protection at left guard ever since he entered the starting lineup in 2022," Renner explained. "With the emergence of the Rams' and Seahawks' defensive interiors, that's a big problem going forward. Olaivavega Ioane would be a massive upgrade in that regard."
Ioane (6-4, 323) posted strong grades from Pro Football Focus during the 2025 season, including a 79.4 overall offensive grade, a 77.9 run-blocking grade, and an 87.3 pass-blocking grade. He allowed just four total pressures and zero sacks across 310 pass-blocking snaps, with his last allowed sack coming in 2023.
Renner believes Ioane could provide long-term stability at left guard and significantly improve protection for franchise quarterback Brock Purdy as the 49ers look ahead to the future.