The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for the upcoming draft with optimism and strategic planning, anticipating a total of 10 selections, including a valuable extra fourth-rounder. As the team awaits the final determination of their draft positions, General Manager John Lynch and his team are already envisioning the potential players who could join the ranks of the red and gold.
Round 1: Tackling Succession
With the 11th overall pick, the 49ers are eyeing Ohio State’s tackle, Josh Simmons, to fortify their offensive line for the future. As the team faces potential departures and aging veterans, the need for a young, talented successor at tackle becomes increasingly urgent. Simmons, although recovering from an ACL tear, presents a compelling option with his skill set, while Missouri’s Armand Membou and LSU’s Will Campbell remain as viable alternatives in the draft.
Round 2: Defensive Depth
In the second round, the 49ers are setting their sights on Texas A&M’s defensive end, Nic Scourton, to complement star player Nick Bosa and bolster the defensive line. Scourton’s past performance showcases his ability to disrupt offenses and generate impactful plays, making him a promising addition to the team. However, if Scourton is unavailable, talented prospects like Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau from Ohio State, or Darius Alexander from Toledo, could step into consideration.
As the draft rounds progress, the 49ers are strategically addressing key areas of concern, aiming to strengthen the team’s overall roster and prepare for the future challenges of the NFL. The selections made in each round reflect a balance of immediate needs and long-term planning, with a focus on securing talented individuals who can contribute significantly to the team’s success.
The third round provides the 49ers with an opportunity to enhance their offensive and defensive capabilities with the additions of tight end Gunnar Helm from Texas and running back Dylan Sampson from Tennessee. Helm’s versatility and blocking skills offer a valuable asset to the team, while Sampson’s explosive speed and scoring ability provide a dynamic threat in the backfield. These selections not only address current gaps in the roster but also lay the foundation for sustained success in the seasons to come.
Round 4: Linebacker Legacy
In the fourth round, the 49ers are looking to secure linebacker Jeffrey Bassa from Oregon and defensive tackle JJ Pegues from Ole Miss. Bassa’s athleticism and tackling prowess position him as a potential successor to current standout Dre Greenlaw, offering stability and depth to the linebacker corps. Pegues, with his unique journey from tight end to defensive line, brings a blend of athleticism and versatility that aligns well with the 49ers’ defensive scheme, promising a disruptive presence on the field.
As the draft progresses into the later rounds, the 49ers continue to focus on strengthening their defensive line with the additions of defensive tackles CJ West from Indiana and Howard Cross III from Notre Dame. West’s unorthodox stature belies his effectiveness on the field, while Cross’s penetrating abilities and fit within the defensive scheme make him a strategic choice for the team’s future success.
In the final rounds of the draft, the 49ers round out their selections with center Thomas Perry from Middlebury and tight end/H-back Tyler Neville from Virginia. Perry’s strength and experience make him a solid addition to the offensive line, while Neville’s versatility and inspiring journey bring a unique dimension to the team’s offensive strategies. As the draft concludes, the 49ers look ahead to the upcoming season with a sense of anticipation and readiness, armed with a new roster of talented players ready to make their mark on the field.
