There is growing uncertainty surrounding the contract situation between the San Francisco 49ers and left tackle Trent Williams. Even before that development, many analysts projected the 49ers would use their first-round pick on a long-term successor. Any breakdown in negotiations would only heighten that need.
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. released his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, projecting San Francisco to select Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller with the No. 27 overall pick.
Miller is viewed as a potential replacement for Williams if contract talks stall. However, if the 49ers and Williams ultimately reach an agreement, Kiper still sees value in the pick, noting Miller could provide an upgrade elsewhere on the offensive line while developing into a future cornerstone.
"You probably see an offensive tackle to San Francisco and think, 'Trent Williams heir apparent,'" Kiper wrote. "But Miller actually played 97% of his college snaps on the right side. Perhaps he'd transition to left tackle if the Niners can't figure out Williams' contract situation, but I like Miller as an upgrade over Colton McKivitz on the right side regardless of what happens there."
Miller spent four seasons at Clemson, appearing in 54 games—all starts—and setting a school record with 3,778 offensive snaps from scrimmage.
In 2025, Miller started all 13 games and logged a team-high 885 offensive snaps. He earned first-team All-ACC honors and set Clemson's record for consecutive starts by a non-specialist with 54.
"The 6-foot-7, 317-pound Miller would bring consistency and reliability to this O-line," Kiper added, noting San Francisco also signed Vederian Lowe as insurance at left tackle.
According to Pro Football Focus, Miller posted career-best marks in 2025, including a 78.5 overall offensive grade and an 83.5 pass-blocking grade. He allowed just two sacks and 14 pressures while adding a 73.3 run-blocking grade.
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