Mel Kiper Jr. wasn't alone in releasing a new mock draft on Tuesday. Two others have unveiled updated projections, and while the picks vary, a common theme is emerging—offense could be the focus for the San Francisco 49ers in the first round.
Kiper projected the 49ers selecting former Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller with the No. 27 overall pick, addressing a potential long-term need along the offensive line.
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Meanwhile, NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah has San Francisco going in a different direction, adding a dynamic offensive weapon. In his latest mock draft, Jeremiah projects the 49ers to select former Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq.
"This is the second time I've mocked Sadiq to the 49ers this year," Jeremiah wrote. "He would be an amazing new toy for Kyle Shanahan."
In his previous projection of Sadiq to the 49ers, Jeremiah explained, "Sadiq could go much higher than 27th overall. He's undersized, but he has outstanding speed and is a competitive blocker. He would be the ultimate chess piece for Kyle Shanahan, giving the coach a hybrid of George Kittle and Kyle Juszczyk."
Mike Renner of CBS Sports also has the 49ers targeting offense in Round 1, but with a different approach. In his latest projection, San Francisco selects former Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr.
"Omar Cooper Jr. is the kind of sudden, one-cut route runner with running back-like ability after the catch that the 49ers love," Renner wrote. "Even after signing Mike Evans in free agency, San Francisco isn't done adding weapons."
The takeaway—for now—is that the 49ers are projected to lean toward offense with their first-round pick. While adding a young pass rusher remains an option, the 2026 NFL Draft is viewed as deep at that position, potentially allowing San Francisco to address it in later rounds.
Mentioned in this article: Mike Evans, Kyle Juszczyk, George Kittle
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