The San Francisco 49ers are coming off a disappointing 2022 season, finishing with a record of 8-9 and missing the playoffs. However, the 49ers have a bright future with a young and talented roster. They also have a lot of draft capital in the 2023 NFL Draft, with nine picks in the first four rounds. In this mock draft, we will take a look at how the 49ers could use their draft picks to improve their team.
With the ninth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the 49ers select Peter Skoronoski, an offensive tackle from Northwestern. Skoronoski is a massive and athletic tackle who could immediately step in and start for the 49ers. He is a great pass blocker and run blocker, and he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl player.
With the 29th overall pick, the 49ers select Julius Brents, a cornerback from Kansas State. Brents is a long and athletic cornerback who has the potential to be a shutdown corner in the NFL. He has great instincts and ball skills, and he is also a very good tackler. Brents could start opposite Charvarius Ward and give the 49ers one of the best cornerback duos in the NFL.
Trey Lance or CJ Stroud: The 49ers’ Quarterback Conundrum
The San Francisco 49ers find themselves at a pivotal juncture as they navigate the NFL’s ever-changing landscape. At the heart of their strategic decision-making lies the quarterback position, where they possess two promising prospects: Trey Lance and CJ Stroud. While both signal-callers offer distinct strengths and weaknesses, the 49ers face the unenviable task of selecting the player they believe will lead them to future success.
Trey Lance, the incumbent starter, has showcased raw athleticism and playmaking ability. His mobility and escapability extend the offense’s reach, adding an element of unpredictability to the 49ers’ attack. However, Lance’s accuracy and decision-making have come under scrutiny, with his completion percentage and interception rate raising concerns. At 22 years old, he remains a work in progress with immense potential but also areas for improvement.
CJ Stroud, on the other hand, presents a more polished and refined skill set. His pinpoint accuracy and quick release allow him to dissect opposing defenses with ease. He possesses an exceptional understanding of the game and rarely makes major mistakes. However, his lack of mobility may limit his ability to extend plays outside the pocket, a key attribute in today’s NFL. Stroud’s age (21) also suggests a relatively steep learning curve as he adjusts to the rigors of the professional level.
| Trey Lance | CJ Stroud |
|---|---|
|
|
Hutchinson or Carter: Defensive Reinforcement on the Horizon
Aidan Hutchinson: A Former Heisman Contender
In his final season at Michigan, the 6’7″, 265-pound defensive end put together a dominant campaign. Hutchinson recorded 14 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss, earning unanimous All-American and first-team All-Big Ten honors. His exceptional athleticism and versatility make him a disruptive force on the field, capable of generating pressure from both the edge and the interior.
Jalen Carter: A Versatile Force in the Trenches
The 6’3″, 309-pound defensive tackle showcased his immense talent during his sophomore season at Georgia. Carter recorded 8.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss while showcasing impressive run-stopping abilities. His rare combination of size, strength, and agility allows him to disrupt offenses at the point of attack and generate pressure from the interior. Carter excels at shedding blockers and reaching the quarterback, making him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
| Aidan Hutchinson | Jalen Carter | |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Defensive end | Defensive tackle |
| Height/Weight | 6’7″, 265 lbs | 6’3″, 309 lbs |
| College | Michigan | Georgia |
| 2022 Stats | 14 sacks, 20.5 tackles for loss | 8.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss |
| Notable Awards | Unanimous All-American, first-team All-Big Ten | – |
The Treasure at 29: A Dynamic Playmaker for the Niners
Analyzing Potential Picks
The 49ers possess the 29th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, affording them a prime opportunity to acquire a game-changing talent. With numerous promising prospects available at various positions, the team must meticulously evaluate their options to identify the player who best aligns with their roster needs and long-term vision.
The following table highlights three potential targets for the 49ers at the 29th spot, along with their key attributes and areas for improvement:
| Prospect | Position | Key Attributes | Areas for Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaheim Oatis | Defensive Tackle | Massive frame, exceptional strength, disruptive pass rush | Lateral agility, consistency in tackling |
| Domani Jackson | Cornerback | Lightning-fast speed, superb athleticism, instinctual ball skills | Tackling form, coverage technique in complex schemes |
| Zach Rice | Offensive Tackle | Remarkable length, strong anchor, powerful run blocking | Footwork in pass protection, stamina in extended drives |
In-Depth Analysis: Jaheim Oatis
Among the potential targets, Jaheim Oatis stands out as a tantalizing prospect for the 49ers. At 6’5″, 345 pounds, Oatis possesses an imposing physical presence that would instantly bolster the team’s interior defensive line. His exceptional strength allows him to generate tremendous power in both the run game and as a pass rusher.
Oatis’s explosive first step and relentless motor enable him to wreak havoc in the trenches. He consistently disrupts offensive plays with his ability to penetrate gaps and collapse pocket. However, his lateral agility and tackling technique require some refinement to maximize his effectiveness. With further development, Oatis has the potential to become an anchor for the 49ers defense for years to come.
Offensive Line Reinforcement: Protecting the Future
The 49ers’ offensive line has been a key factor in their recent success, but it’s an area that could use some reinforcements. With several key players set to become free agents in the next few years, the team needs to start thinking about the future. In this mock draft, we’ll take a look at some potential offensive line prospects who could help the 49ers protect their quarterback and open up running lanes in the years to come.
Projected First-Round Pick: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
Harrison is a massive tackle with great size and athleticism. He’s a physical blocker who excels in the running game, and he also has the footwork and technique to be a solid pass protector. Harrison is a bit raw, but he has all the tools to be a dominant offensive lineman in the NFL.
Projected Second-Round Pick: Blake Freeland, C, BYU
Freeland is a versatile lineman who can play center or guard. He’s a smart, tough player who excels in all areas of the game. Freeland is a good pass protector, and he’s also a mauler in the running game. He’s not the most athletic lineman, but he makes up for it with his intelligence and toughness.
Projected Third-Round Pick: Titus Leo, OT, Wagner
Leo is a bit of a sleeper prospect, but he has a lot of potential. He’s a big, strong tackle with good technique. Leo is a good pass protector, and he also has the athleticism to be a factor in the running game. He’s not the most experienced player, but he has all the tools to be a successful NFL offensive lineman.
| Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|
| Anton Harrison | OT | Oklahoma |
| Blake Freeland | C/G | BYU |
| Titus Leo | OT | Wagner |
Secondary Sentinel: Adding Depth to the Backfield
Finding a Playmaker at Cornerback
The 49ers have a solid foundation in their secondary, but they could use another playmaker at cornerback. With Emmanuel Moseley and Charvarius Ward set to be free agents in 2025, the team needs to find a long-term solution. Mike Hughes and Deommodore Lenoir have shown flashes, but they haven’t consistently played at a high level. In this mock draft, the 49ers select Devon Witherspoon from Illinois with the 23rd overall pick. Witherspoon is a physical and athletic cornerback who excels in man coverage. He has a knack for making big plays, and he would be a valuable addition to the 49ers’ defense.
Adding Depth to the Safety Position
The 49ers’ safety position is another area that could use some depth. Jimmie Ward and Talanoa Hufanga are both solid players, but the team lacks a true playmaker at the position. In this mock draft, the 49ers select JQ Hardaway from Cincinnati with the 56th overall pick. Hardaway is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong safety. He is a good tackler and has a nose for the football. He would be a valuable addition to the 49ers’ defense, and he could eventually develop into a star.
Drafting a Linebacker for the Future
The 49ers have a solid linebacker corps, but they could use some more depth. Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw are both Pro Bowl-caliber players, but the team lacks a true pass rusher at the position. In this mock draft, the 49ers select Will Levis from Kentucky with the 9th overall pick. Levis is a versatile linebacker who can play all three positions. He is a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays. He would be a valuable addition to the 49ers’ defense, and he could eventually develop into a star.
Finding a Running Back to Complement Mitchell
The 49ers have a solid running game, but they could use another back to complement Elijah Mitchell. Mitchell is a good all-around back, but he is not a true workhorse. In this mock draft, the 49ers select Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama with the 31st overall pick. Gibbs is a versatile running back who can do it all. He is a good runner, receiver, and blocker. He would be a valuable addition to the 49ers’ offense, and he could eventually develop into a star.
Addressing the Defensive Line
The 49ers’ defensive line is one of the best in the NFL, but they could use some more depth. Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead are both Pro Bowl-caliber players, but the team lacks a true pass rusher at the position. In this mock draft, the 49ers select Nolan Smith from Georgia with the 7th overall pick. Smith is a versatile defensive lineman who can play all three positions. He is a good pass rusher and has a knack for making big plays. He would be a valuable addition to the 49ers’ defense, and he could eventually develop into a star.
Next-Level Pass Rush: Unleashing an Unstoppable Force
The 49ers have a longstanding tradition of fielding dominant pass rushers, and the 2025 NFL Draft offers a promising crop of prospects who could help continue that legacy. Here’s a closer look at the top pass rushers who could be available when the 49ers are on the clock.
Jade Howard, DE, Ohio State
Howard is a freakishly athletic edge rusher with an explosive first step and an array of pass-rushing moves. He has the size and strength to handle tackles in the running game, and his relentless motor makes him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks.
Isaiah Foskey, DE, Notre Dame
Foskey is a powerful pass rusher with a relentless motor and a knack for making big plays. He uses his long arms and quick first step to create separation from blockers, and he has a variety of pass-rush moves that keep offensive linemen guessing.
Nyckoles Harbor, DE, South Carolina
Harbor is a unique talent who could line up at defensive end or linebacker. He has elite speed and athleticism, and he uses his exceptional length and strength to overwhelm blockers. While he is still learning the nuances of the position, Harbor has the potential to be a game-changing pass rusher.
Shemar Stewart, DE, Texas
Stewart is a physical specimen with a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He has the power to bulldoze tackles in the running game, and his quick first step and explosive burst allow him to generate pressure on quarterbacks.
Domani Jackson, CB, Southern Cal
Jackson is a versatile defensive back who could play cornerback or safety in the NFL. He has excellent coverage skills and uses his length and athleticism to disrupt passing lanes. While he is not a traditional pass rusher, Jackson has the potential to make an impact in the pass rush with his ability to pressure quarterbacks from the slot.
Top Pass Rusher Prospects for the 49ers in the 2025 NFL Draft
| Prospect | Position | College |
|---|---|---|
| Jade Howard | DE | Ohio State |
| Isaiah Foskey | DE | Notre Dame |
| Nyckoles Harbor | DE/LB | South Carolina |
| Shemar Stewart | DE | Texas |
| Domani Jackson | CB/S | Southern Cal |
Wide Receiver Redemption: A Route to Success
The San Francisco 49ers have a long and storied history of drafting wide receivers, with some of the NFL’s all-time greats coming through the Bay Area. However, in recent years, the 49ers have struggled to find consistent production from their wide receivers, leaving many fans wondering if the team has lost its touch when it comes to drafting and developing pass-catchers.
In this mock draft, we take a look at seven wide receivers who the 49ers could target in the 2025 NFL Draft. These players all have the potential to be impact players in the NFL, and they could help the 49ers return to their former glory as one of the league’s most prolific passing offenses.
7. Jaleel Skinner, Texas A&M
Jaleel Skinner is a 6’4″, 220-pound wide receiver who is entering his junior season at Texas A&M. He is a physical specimen with great size, speed, and athleticism. Skinner is also a very good route runner and has a knack for making big plays down the field.
In 2022, Skinner had 38 receptions for 540 yards and 8 touchdowns. He also averaged 14.2 yards per catch, which was second on the team. Skinner is a rising star, and he could be a major steal for the 49ers if he is available at pick No. 27.
| Player | Team | Projection |
|---|---|---|
| Jaleel Skinner | Texas A&M | Round 1, Pick 27 |
Tight End Target: Enhancing the Aerial Arsenal
In pursuit of further elevating their offensive capabilities, the 49ers are projected to prioritize drafting a high-caliber tight end in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the departure of George Kittle the previous season, the 49ers have identified the need for a dynamic pass-catching threat at the position.
Prospect Profile: Luke Musgrave
College: Oregon State Beavers
Luke Musgrave, a 6’5″, 255-pound tight end from Oregon State University, stands out as a prime target for the 49ers. His exceptional size and athleticism make him a formidable presence on the field, boasting an impressive blend of strength, speed, and agility.
Skill Set:
Musgrave’s route-running is a testament to his savvy and precision. He showcases impeccable timing and body control, effortlessly adjusting to the quarterback’s delivery and creating separation from defenders. His precise hands ensure he securely catches the ball, minimizing dropped passes.
As a blocker, Musgrave exhibits unwavering determination and tenacity. His physicality allows him to effectively execute both inline and off-the-line blocks, providing crucial protection for the quarterback and clearing paths for running backs.
| Measurables | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’5″ |
| Weight | 255 lbs |
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.65 seconds |
| Vertical Jump | 36 inches |
| Broad Jump | 10’2″ |
Linebacker Legacy: Bolstering the Defensive Backbone
The 49ers’ linebacker corps has been a cornerstone of their defensive success in recent years, and they will need to continue to add talent to the position in the upcoming draft. With a number of key players set to hit free agency, the 49ers will need to find some young players who can step in and contribute immediately.
One player who could be a good fit for the 49ers is Henry To’oTo’o from Tennessee. To’oTo’o is a physical and athletic linebacker who has the potential to be a three-down player in the NFL. He is a good tackler and has a knack for making plays in the backfield. He also has good coverage skills, which would be a valuable asset to the 49ers’ defense.
9. Henry To’oTo’o, LB, Tennessee
Henry To’oTo’o is a 6’2″, 228-pound linebacker from Tennessee. He is a physical and athletic player who has the potential to be a three-down player in the NFL. To’oTo’o is a good tackler and has a knack for making plays in the backfield. He also has good coverage skills, which would be a valuable asset to the 49ers’ defense.
To’oTo’o had a breakout season in 2022, leading the Volunteers in tackles (96) and tackles for loss (12.5). He also recorded 4.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 3 pass breakups.
To’oTo’o is a versatile player who can play all three linebacker positions. He has the size and strength to play inside, but he also has the athleticism and coverage skills to play outside. This versatility would be a valuable asset to the 49ers’ defense, which is known for its multiple looks and packages.
| Year | Tackles | TFL | Sacks | INT | PBU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 76 | 6.5 | 3.0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2021 | 90 | 7.5 | 3.5 | 2 | 2 |
| 2022 | 96 | 12.5 | 4.5 | 2 | 3 |
To’oTo’o is a high-character player who is well-respected by his teammates and coaches. He is a hard worker and is always willing to put in the extra work to improve his game. To’oTo’o would be a great addition to the 49ers’ defense, and he has the potential to be a key contributor for many years to come.
Special Teams Successor: Securing the Field Position Advantage
With Robbie Gould approaching the twilight of his career, the 49ers need to start thinking about their future at the kicker position. They could do this by drafting a young, talented specialist who can handle both kicking and punting duties.
10. P/K Nolan Labovich, Minnesota
Labovich is a 6’3″, 205-pound punter and kicker who has excellent all-around skills. He averaged 45.3 yards per punt in 2024, with 24 of his punts downed inside the 20-yard line. He also made 17 of 22 field goals, with a long of 53 yards.
Labovich is a left-footed kicker, which could be a slight concern for the 49ers, but his overall talent is undeniable. He is a good athlete with a strong leg, and he has the potential to be a very good NFL kicker.
| 2024 | |
|---|---|
| Punting | 45.3 yards per punt, 24 inside the 20 |
| Kicking | 17 of 22 field goals, long of 53 yards |
49ers 2025 Mock Draft: Addressing Needs in the Trenches and Secondary
With the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the San Francisco 49ers are poised to make waves in the offseason. The team’s success in the upcoming draft will hinge on their ability to address their pressing needs in the trenches and secondary.
On offense, the 49ers are lacking a true left tackle, a glaring hole that has plagued them for years. In this mock draft, they select Daniel Calhoun from the University of Georgia, a highly athletic and versatile prospect who can provide much-needed stability to the offensive line.
On defense, the 49ers desperately need to bolster their pass rush and upgrade their secondary. With the 15th overall pick, they select edge rusher Jason Marshall from Ohio State, a dynamic and disruptive force off the edge. In the second round, they target cornerback Marcus Davis from LSU, a lockdown corner with exceptional ball skills.
Overall, this mock draft provides a solid foundation for the 49ers to build upon in the coming seasons, addressing their most pressing needs and setting them up for success in the years to come.
