While ESPN analyst Field Yates doesn't expect the 49ers to make a similarly significant trade in next week's draft, he does see a scenario where general manager John Lynch might consider moving up to secure one of the top offensive tackle prospects.
"If Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders goes third overall to the Giants, the chain reaction would likely include the Patriots taking Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter or Colorado receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter," Yates explained in a feature for ESPN.com. "That means the top two offensive tackles -- LSU's Will Campbell and Missouri's Armand Membou -- could reach the eighth pick of the draft."
The 49ers currently hold the No. 11 overall pick, just three spots later, which could make a trade-up feasible and much more affordable than the one in 2021.
"Should that be the case, would San Francisco -- with its major offensive line need -- consider leapfrogging the Bears at No. 10 to draft one of them?" Yates asked. "The 49ers have a lot of holes to fill throughout the draft, but they also have 11 picks to work with -- tied for the most."
Most expect the 49ers to address the trenches early in the draft. While the defensive line took a hit this offseason with the departures of Javon Hargrave, Maliek Collins, and Leonard Floyd, the offensive line also needs reinforcements.
Left guard Aaron Banks left in free agency, and the team must identify a successor to left tackle Trent Williams, who turns 37 ahead of the 2025 season. That eventual replacement could start immediately at right tackle, offering a potential upgrade over Colton McKivitz until Williams retires.
It will be interesting to see how the top 10 selections unfold and whether any surprises prompt the 49ers to make an aggressive move to strengthen their offensive front.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Two NFL mock drafts have 49ers targeting offensive line help
The San Francisco 49ers' first-round position in the 2026 NFL Draft is now set following Sunday's playoff matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Chicago Bears. With the Bears' loss, San Francisco officially secured the No. 27 overall pick, sparking early speculation about how... -
ESPN predicts landing spot for 49ers coordinator Robert Saleh
Teams in need of a head coach are now permitted to interview candidates whose teams played over the weekend, and San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh is already drawing significant interest. According to reports, at least five teams have requested interviews... -
These 7 49ers players are inactive vs. Eagles
The San Francisco 49ers have released the list of inactive players for their Wild Card playoff matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. These seven players will not suit up for the game. Inactives: LB Luke Gifford (quadricep) DL Kevin Givens RB Isaac Guerendo CB Chase... -
49ers veteran defender praises teammate's strong rookie season
Upton Stout emerged as one of the top performers from the San Francisco 49ers' 2025 rookie class. The third-round pick finished the season as the team's highest-graded cornerback, according to Pro Football Focus. Among 49ers rookies who logged significant playing time, Stout...