The highest-ranked 49ers pick was defensive end Mykel Williams, the team's top selection out of Georgia, who landed at No. 38.
"Williams played well in two big games against Texas, but an ankle injury in Week 1 lingered all season and carried over to his pre-draft testing," Miller wrote. "He was regarded as an elite prospect entering the 2024 season and will get a chance to thrive with All-Pro Nick Bosa drawing attention opposite him. New defensive coordinator Robert Saleh can unlock Williams' considerable potential."
Fourth-round pick CJ West, the 49ers' new defensive tackle out of Indiana, came in at No. 78.
"The 49ers made a commitment to stopping the run in this draft, and West will see early reps along the defensive line as a potential developmental starter at 3-technique," Miller wrote.
Also selected in the fourth round, former Ole Miss wide receiver Jordan Watkins ranked No. 90 on Miller's list.
"The 49ers probably could have landed Watkins later, but his speed and vertical route-running skills are an asset," Miller explained. "Turn on his five-touchdown game against Arkansas and you'll see the vision of this pick."
Rounding out the group is running back Jordan James, the team's fifth-round pick out of Oregon, who just made the cut.
"Kyle Shanahan can't resist Day 3 running backs, and it felt like a real need after the team traded Jordan Mason to the Vikings," Miller noted. "We saw what injuries did to the 49ers' backfield last season. The hard-running James will likely start as the team's RB3."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers great Roger Craig named 2026 Hall of Fame finalist
San Francisco 49ers legend Roger Craig took a significant step toward football immortality on Wednesday. The former NFL running back was named one of five finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, joining senior finalists Ken Anderson and L.C. Greenwood, coach... -
49ers safety Ji'Ayir Brown named NFC Defensive Player of the Week
San Francisco 49ers safety Ji'Ayir Brown has been named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week after a standout Week 12 performance against the Carolina Panthers. Brown delivered one of the strongest games of his NFL career, finishing with five tackles and two passes... -
49ers top Panthers 20-9 in Week 12: Rapid reactions
The San Francisco 49ers are in a tight race toward the postseason, and need all the wins they can get. On Monday night, they secured another win, defeating the Carolina Panthers 20-9. With their eighth win of the season, the 49ers stay in the playoff picture. Here are my rapid... -
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...