The San Francisco 49ers are expected to address multiple roster needs this offseason. Help in the trenches remains a priority, the offense could benefit from another pass-catching weapon for quarterback Brock Purdy, and adding depth to the secondary is firmly in play. There's also uncertainty at tight end, with George Kittle coming off an Achilles injury.

Given those needs, some fans may hesitate at the idea of using a first-round pick on a "developmental project." However, an offensive line succession plan eventually needs to become a priority for the 49ers. With Trent Williams returning at left tackle and right tackle Colton McKivitz recently signing an extension, drafting a long-term replacement on the left side makes sense.


In his first 2026 NFL mock draft for NFL.com, analyst Bucky Brooks projects the 49ers selecting Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling with the No. 27 overall pick. Brooks views Freeling as a potential successor to Williams.

"At 37 years old, left tackle Trent Williams is nearing the end of a Hall of Fame career -- which makes finding an eventual successor a top priority," Brooks wrote. "Freeling is far from a polished product, but his physical tools and upside make him an intriguing developmental prospect."

Freeling, who stands 6-foot-7 and weighs 315 pounds, would benefit from spending a season learning behind one of the greatest tackles of his generation. In 2025, he posted a career-best 85.7 pass-blocking grade, though his run-blocking lagged behind at 61.6. Over 469 pass-blocking snaps, Freeling allowed nine pressures and three sacks.

As Williams nears the end of his NFL career, it's no surprise that many mock drafts project the 49ers to target a future replacement. Still, with several pressing needs across the roster, San Francisco could ultimately choose to go in a very different direction when the 2026 NFL Draft arrives.

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