The San Francisco 49ers' work on revamping their defensive front will undoubtedly continue in 2026.
After investing heavily in the trenches during the 2025 NFL Draft—selecting Mykel Williams in the first round, Alfred Collins in the second, and CJ West in the fourth—the 49ers still struggled to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run consistently. Improving the defensive line remains a priority heading into 2026.
In his latest seven-round 2026 NFL mock draft for Pro Football and Sports Network, Alec Elijah projects the 49ers will once again target the interior defensive line early.
Elijah has San Francisco selecting Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks with the No. 27 overall pick.
"The 49ers may be looking to add depth and explosiveness to their defensive front, and Florida's Caleb Banks could provide exactly that," Elijah wrote. "When fully healthy, Banks projects as a three-down disruptor capable of dominating the interior and pressuring quarterbacks.
"While injuries have slowed his progress, Banks' upside remains undeniable. His combination of size, athleticism, and raw power gives the 49ers a potential game-changing presence up front, one who can impact both the run and pass and elevate the effectiveness of the entire defensive line."
49ers bolster offense in Round 2
Elijah has the 49ers shifting their focus to offense in the second round, selecting USC wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane with the No. 58 overall pick to strengthen the pass-catching corps.
"With the 49ers in need of a dynamic wide receiver, Lane stands out as a prime candidate," Elijah explained. "At 6-foot-4, he combines size, length, and athleticism to create mismatches, particularly in the red zone."
A bigger-bodied receiver could add another dimension to head coach Kyle Shanahan's offense.
Full 49ers 2026 mock draft projection
Elijah continues addressing needs on both sides of the ball throughout the draft. Here are the remaining projected selections:
- Round 3, pick 92: DE Derrick Moore, Michigan
- Round 4, pick 127: OG Fernando Carmona Jr., Arkansas
- Round 4, pick 133: S Michael Taaffe, Texas
- Round 4, pick 138: TE Dallen Bentley, Utah
- Round 4, pick 171: WR Cyrus Allen, Cincinnati
- Round 7, pick 247: DE Cameron Robertson, SMU
Comments