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
-
ESPN questions whether 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey's impact is being overhyped
From a raw production standpoint, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey delivered another eye-catching season. He finished just 76 receiving yards shy of becoming the first player in NFL history to post multiple seasons with 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000... -
49ers' Christian McCaffrey among nominees for FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Year
The NFL announced today that nominees for the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Year are: Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen finished the season with 3,668 passing yards and 25 touchdown passes. He ranked first among quarterbacks in rushing touchdowns (14) and... -
Williams, Pearsall among 7 49ers players inactive vs. Seahawks
The San Francisco 49ers have released the list of inactive players for their Week 18 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. These seven players will not suit up for the game. Inactives: DL Robert Beal DL Kevin Givens RB Isaac Guerendo CB Chase Lucas WR Ricky Pearsall (knee,... -
49ers find Spencer Burford replacement in 2026 NFL mock draft
Mike Renner released his latest 2026 NFL mock draft for CBS Sports, and he has the San Francisco 49ers addressing the interior of the offensive line in the first round. Specifically, Renner projects head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch to target a long-term...