Pro Football Focus (PFF) contributor Bradley Locker recently analyzed the potential first three rounds of the upcoming draft and identified the ideal haul for each team. For the 49ers, Locker's picks are focused on fortifying the defensive side of the ball.
Locker has San Francisco selecting Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon, Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell, Iowa State cornerback Darien Porter, and Iowa State wide receiver Jaylin Noel.
Harmon's selection is sure to spark debate. Some mock drafts project him as a late first-round pick, while others don't list him in the first round at all. We'll see where his stock lands as the draft approaches.
Locker explained the defensive focus: "Now that the 49ers know that Trent Williams will play in 2025, they can rest assured that they probably don't need to draft a tackle as highly anymore (although adding one would still be smart). Now, John Lynch can focus on recovering from potential free-agent losses this offseason."
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw could depart via free agency, and the 49ers are also expected to release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave with a post-June 1 designation.
"San Francisco's interior defenders generally underperformed in 2024, and Javon Hargrave will be a free agent," Locker wrote. "Harmon (83.9 overall PFF grade) could naturally slide in and start next to Nick Bosa. At linebacker, the 49ers need a consistently healthy starter next to Fred Warner, and Campbell (81.6 overall PFF grade) would be too good to pass up in the second round."
Cornerback Charvarius Ward isn't likely to return, leaving depth concerns in the secondary. Additionally, the 49ers are expected to part ways with wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who requested a trade during January's exit interviews, creating an opportunity to draft a wideout.
"Porter (4.7 passer rating when targeted) and Noel (81.7 PFF receiving grade) could account for losing both Charvarius Ward and Deebo Samuel," Locker added.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers vs. Browns PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 9-4 after a 26-8 win against the Cleveland Browns in Week 13. Today, Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game. Which Niners stood out, and who needs more work? Highest-graded 49ers: Offense George... -
49ers overlook size concerns, add skilled receiver in The Athletic's 2026 NFL mock draft
The San Francisco 49ers could be in the market for a first-round wide receiver when the 2026 NFL Draft arrives. Brandon Aiyuk's future remains uncertain, and many around the league believe the veteran wideout has likely played his final snap for the 49ers—even after signing a... -
3-round mock draft: 49ers use first two picks to bolster offense
The San Francisco 49ers entered the season with several roster concerns, and mounting injuries have only amplified those issues. The defensive line has been hit hard with the losses of Nick Bosa, Mykel Williams, and others, leaving the 49ers thin up front. Meanwhile, the pass... -
2026 NFL mock draft: 49ers target Brandon Aiyuk replacement with first-round pick
The San Francisco 49ers appear poised to part ways with veteran wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Aiyuk continues to rehab from the ACL and MCL injuries he sustained in October 2024. The team reportedly grew frustrated with Aiyuk for missing offseason rehab appointments and...