NFL mock draft: Who the project 49ers experts will pick in the first round originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
The 2024 NFL season isn’t over yet, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the 2025 NFL Draft – especially considering how this year has gone for the 49ers.
San Francisco has several needs it could address in the first round, where the team currently has the No. 17 overall pick, according to Tankathon.com, thanks to its 6-7 record. But among the latest NFL drafts, there is one position that stands out from the rest.
While the order could play out in different ways from now until the draft on April 24, league experts shared who they think the 49ers will take on Day 1, with their projected picks in San Francisco ranging from Nos. 14 to 17 .
Here’s a look at sample concepts from around the web:
No. 15 pick – Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
With the possibility of a huge extension for Brock Purdy this offseason, the 49ers could have some evolving team needs. They have so many big deals on the books and can only keep so many players. That said, San Francisco should strengthen the position.” inside the defensive line and get younger there, no matter what. Nolen is a disruptor with excellent pass-rush qualities, totaling 6.5 sacks this season. He has very good strength, an explosive first step and powerful hands to take out blockers and chase the quarterback.” – Field Yates
No. 17 pick – Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame or Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
The 49ers will be one of the NFL’s most fascinating teams this season due to their need to commit money to free agents and evaluate players with a plethora of injuries. Cornerback and tackle are two positions that general manager John Lynch will have to strengthen…. Benjamin Morrison suffered a season-ending hip injury but had a PFF coverage grade above 82.2 in consecutive years.
Another looming cloud for the 49ers is the status of left tackle Trent Williams, as the future Hall of Famer is 36. If Williams decides to hang up his cleats, Lynch will have to find someone to replace his massive shoes. over 2,300 snaps at left tackle in Minnesota while playing at a commendable level, Aireontae ersery could be a candidate.” -Bradley Locker
No. 17 pick – Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
“The 49ers offensive line is dangerously thin. We saw that when Trent Williams missed time this year. Aireontae Ersery could very well be the 49ers’ starting left tackle going forward as he has progressed in all three years has shown.” as a starter.” -Mike Renner
Pick #17 – Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State
“Simmons has significant upside due to his size and athleticism. He would be a sensible heir to Trent Williams in San Francisco.” -Chris Trapasso
No. 17 choice — Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota
San Francisco’s poor season can be attributed to a variety of regressions, especially the offensive line. Ersery, a three-year starter at left tackle, is a powerful run blocker and athletic pass protector. He had a strong 2024 campaign in which he only allowed once.” sack, one quarterback hit and thirteen pressures. He also has brief experience at right tackle if the 49ers choose to replace Colton McKivitz after 2025. -Daniel Flick
No. 14 pick – Jonah Savaiinaea, OT, Arizona
“At the rate the 49ers are losing RBs to injuries, they might consider taking one in the first round. But with Jeanty already gone, there isn’t a name worth reaching that high. Instead they try to protect what they already have by bringing in Jonah Savaiinaea from Arizona.
“Savaiinaea is a highly athletic blocker with rare explosiveness and short-area speed for his 6-foot-4, 330-pound frame. In addition to the physical attributes, Savaiinaea also shows promise operationally. He is a balanced, adaptable footwork technician who can use independent hands. He remains alert and active when faced with stunts and can use his attributes for menacing power in the run game. -Ryan Gosling
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