Charles Davis released his first 2026 NFL mock draft for NFL.com and has the San Francisco 49ers taking an unexpected route with the No. 27 overall pick. While many analysts project the 49ers to address more immediate needs — such as defensive line, offensive guard, or wide receiver — Davis has San Francisco selecting former Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq in the first round.
"The 49ers specialize in selecting players that perfectly fit the vision for where they're going as a team," Davis wrote. "Sadiq is a special talent and will have an All-Pro TE to emulate in George Kittle."
The projection makes some sense. Kittle is 32 years old and entering his 10th NFL season. He is also working his way back from an Achilles injury, and although he's reportedly targeting a Week 1 return, his early-season availability remains uncertain.
Sadiq (6-3, 245) is the first tight end off the board in Davis' mock draft. Notably, fellow NFL draft analysts Daniel Jeremiah and Lance Zierlein have also connected Sadiq to the 49ers in recent projections, suggesting growing momentum around the potential fit in Kyle Shanahan's offense.
A former four-star recruit, Sadiq spent three seasons at Oregon and broke out in 2025. He totaled 51 receptions for 560 yards and a team-high eight touchdowns, earning Big Ten Tight End of the Year honors along with first-team All-Big Ten recognition.
Across his three collegiate seasons, Sadiq recorded 80 catches for 892 yards and 11 touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. He also added nine rushing attempts for 42 yards, showcasing some versatility in the Ducks' offense.
If the 49ers were to make this move in the 2026 NFL Draft, Sadiq would provide quarterback Brock Purdy with another dynamic pass-catching option while offering a long-term succession plan at tight end behind Kittle.