A couple of respected 49ers insiders—Matt Barrows of The Athletic and Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area—have previously projected the team selecting playmaking tight end Tyler Warren from Penn State in their mock drafts.
It's an intriguing idea, particularly if you picture Shanahan utilizing two-tight end sets with George Kittle and Warren on the field together, creating a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Warren is a versatile weapon. Not only did he catch 104 passes for 1,233 yards and eight touchdowns, but he also added 26 carries for 218 yards and four rushing touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. His versatility makes him a matchup problem for defensive coordinators.
However, Pro Football Focus contributor Dalton Wasserman labeled the selection of Warren at No. 11 as the "worst first-round fit" for the 49ers.
"If given the chance, Kyle Shanahan could undoubtedly find a way to utilize both George Kittle and Tyler Warren effectively," Wasserman explained. "However, with needs on both lines and in the secondary, San Francisco isn't in a position to make a luxury pick at tight end, especially with Kittle still playing at an elite level."
While Warren could be a strong pick if the 49ers were aiming to select the best player available, the team faces too many pressing needs after a six-win season and a massive roster exodus this offseason. This draft is critical for Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, and they can't afford to overlook more urgent roster concerns.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers Receiver Speed Could Be Kyle Shanahan's Secret Weapon Sunday
Kyle Shanahan has spent much of this season finding ways to win despite injuries, and Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons presents another unusual situation. The 49ers are down to four primary wide receivers, but Christian Kirk, Brandin Cooks, Jordan Watkins, and Jacob... -
49ers vs. Falcons PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers fell to 6-1 after a 29-20 loss to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7. Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts, offering a closer look at which 49ers players stood out and who still has work to do. Highest-graded 49ers: Offense George Kittle,... -
49ers vs. Commanders PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 6-0 after a 23-17 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 6. Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game, providing a closer look at which 49ers players stood out and who has more work to... -
49ers named as fit for 3 receiver trades and NFC West pass rusher
With major trades happening across the NFC and the San Francisco 49ers looking to build on their 6-1 start, general manager John Lynch may not be done making moves. The 49ers reunited with DeForest Buckner this week, sending the Colts a 2027 fourth-round draft pick for the...