Josh Edwards has released his newest 2026 NFL mock draft for CBS Sports, projecting the San Francisco 49ers to strengthen a major area of need—the interior of their defensive line. Despite significant investments in the position group this year, Edwards has head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch selecting Oregon defensive tackle A'Mauri Washington with the No. 26 overall pick.

"For years, the 49ers invested in their defensive line with the likes of Arik Armstead, DeForest Buckner and Javon Kinlaw," Edwards explained. "San Francisco took some shots on Day 2 [this] year, but is still looking for long-term solutions on that front."


San Francisco drafted two defensive tackles this year—Alfred Collins in the second round and CJ West in the fourth. The 49ers also used their first-round pick on versatile defensive lineman Mykel Williams, who can line up both inside and outside.

Washington (6-3, 330) has recorded 29 tackles (four for loss), 1.5 sacks, and six passes defensed this season, his first as a full-time starter. He earned a 77.5 defensive grade and a 79.8 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus, both career bests.

"The hope is that Washington, a young, ascending player, would be a mainstay on a defense that has gotten a jolt from the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator," Edwards added.

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