The 49ers parted ways with defensive linemen Javon Hargrave, Maliek Collins, and Leonard Floyd, the latter two having started all 17 games last season. Floyd tallied 8.5 sacks in 2024, second only to Nick Bosa's nine quarterback takedowns.
San Francisco reportedly considered signing Bosa's older brother, Joey Bosa, but the veteran pass rusher ultimately chose to join the Buffalo Bills for more money.
CBS Sports contributor Kyle Stackpole released his latest mock draft, projecting that the 49ers will address their depleted defensive line by selecting Marshall defensive end Mike Green with the No. 11 overall pick.
"The 49ers lost three contributors along the defensive line during free agency, so they need to replenish the cupboard," Stackpole wrote. "Mike Green gives them an edge rusher who will produce from Day 1."
Green (6-3, 251) was dominant in 2024, recording 84 tackles (23 for a loss), two passes defensed, and three forced fumbles in 13 games, per Sports Reference. He also led the nation with 17 sacks.
Green began his college career at Virginia in 2021 before transferring to Marshall, where he played his last two seasons. He finished his collegiate career with 131 tackles (33 for a loss), 22.5 sacks, two passes defensed, and four forced fumbles.
His 2024 performance earned him a 92.4 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus—the highest among all FBS defenders. He also posted a 90.2 run-defense grade (second among edge rushers) and a 91.4 pass-rush grade (tied for sixth).
Green could be the disruptive presence returning defensive coordinator Robert Saleh needs to revamp the underperforming front.
The 2025 NFL Draft begins on Thursday, April 24, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers DT Osa Odighizuwa feels 'handcuffs' are off in new defensive role
New San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa is excited about the opportunity ahead after being acquired this offseason in a trade with the Dallas Cowboys. The veteran defensive lineman believes working within coordinator Raheem Morris' defense will allow him to... -
How 49ers QB Brock Purdy's relationship with Kyle Shanahan has evolved
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy is preparing to enter his fifth NFL season. He has come a long way since being selected with the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, and has since led the 49ers to three playoff berths, two NFC Championship Games, and a Super Bowl... -
49ers veteran reveals how Kyle Shanahan has evolved as a coach
San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk, this year's Dwight Clark Award recipient, spoke with NBC Sports Bay Area's Laura Britt on Wednesday at the Dwight Clark Legacy Series event and offered insight into head coach Kyle Shanahan's growth since arriving in San... -
49ers owner Jed York reveals the only NFL Draft pick he ever pushed for
There's often a different energy when Jed York discusses players from his alma mater, the University of Notre Dame. For the most part, the San Francisco 49ers owner has stayed hands-off when it comes to draft decisions. However, in a conversation with ESPN's Jamison Hensley,...