The San Francisco 49ers have been active in free agency as they reshape their roster ahead of the 2026 season. The team added veteran wide receiver Mike Evans and brought back linebacker Dre Greenlaw, while also trading for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to strengthen the interior of the defensive line.

One notable position that remains largely unaddressed, however, is edge rusher. San Francisco reportedly pursued defensive end John Franklin-Myers but was ultimately outbid by the Tennessee Titans.


If the 49ers cannot find a veteran addition to upgrade their pass rush—especially after losing Bryce Huff to retirement and with Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams both recovering from ACL injuries—they could turn to the 2026 NFL Draft for help. That possibility remains likely even after the team spent three draft picks on defensive linemen last year.

Mock draft projects pass rush help to 49ers in Round 1


In his latest three-round mock draft, Alec Elijah of Pro Football & Sports Network projects the 49ers to select former Miami defensive end Akheem Mesidor in the first round. The 49ers met with Mesidor during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

"A team firmly in win-now mode, the San Francisco 49ers may enter the draft focused less on long-term projects and more on players who can help immediately," Elijah wrote. "That mindset could put Akheem Mesidor squarely on their radar. The former Hurricanes defender brings proven production and positional flexibility, traits that could translate quickly to a defense already loaded with talent."

Mesidor delivered a productive 2025 season, recording 12.5 sacks along with 63 tackles, including 17.5 for loss, and four forced fumbles. He finished his collegiate career with 208 tackles, 52.5 tackles for loss, 35.5 sacks, four passes defensed, and five forced fumbles across 65 games.

One potential concern for some teams could be Mesidor's age. He will be 25 years old at the start of the 2026 NFL season. By comparison, Williams—the 49ers' first-round pick in 2025—will be just 22 entering his second NFL season.


Still, Elijah believes Mesidor's versatility makes him worthy of a first-round selection.

"Mesidor's biggest strength is his versatility along the defensive front," Elijah wrote. "Throughout his college career, he lined up in several roles, including 3-technique, 5-technique, and even as a stand-up edge rusher in wider alignments. For a new defensive scheme that thrives on pressure and creativity up front, Mesidor's adaptability could make him a valuable addition as the 49ers continue pushing toward another Super Bowl run."

49ers address the offensive line in Round 2


The 49ers currently have just one additional selection within the first three rounds after sending their third-round pick to the Dallas Cowboys for Odighizuwa. Their next pick comes at No. 58 overall in the second round, where Elijah projects San Francisco selecting former Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor.

The projection makes sense given the uncertainty surrounding the future of veteran left tackle Trent Williams.

"Reinforcing the offensive line could remain a priority for the San Francisco 49ers, and Max Iheanachor offers the type of talent capable of stepping in quickly," Elijah wrote. "Iheanachor stands out because of his balance of athleticism and strength. He moves well in pass protection, using his footwork and awareness to stay in front of edge rushers while maintaining a strong anchor against power."


If the mock draft scenario plays out, the 49ers would address two key areas—pass rush and offensive line depth—as they push to remain contenders in the NFC.

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