San Francisco 49ers Mock Draft: NFC Champions select the most underrated player in the draft

49ers select two potential late-round steals in 2024 NFL Draft

The 49ers are widely projected to take a defensive end in the first or second round, but they could wait to address this position late in the draft. The team recently signed Leonard Floyd who had 10.5 sacks. They also are hoping for more from last year’s fifth-round draft pick Rober Beal this season.

"I feel like I can go to any organization and be a key piece regardless of whatever they want me to do, especially things like rotational pass rusher, those type of things, and really being a help to any organization, because of my versatility as a player and in regards of what I bring to the table."

- Xavier Thomas

Xavier Thomas fit the bill as a dynamic pass rusher showing an explosive first step off the ball. He also displays the flexibility to get around the edge and has great potential for a sixth-round pick. The reason he will likely fall to this point in the draft is that he only had average production in college and has been injury-prone.

The 49ers have two solid safeties in Talanoa Hufanga and Ji’Ayir Brown. However, they will likely look to add depth to this position late in the draft. Another reason to take a safety late in the draft is that they can find someone at this position who can be a big contributor on special teams.

Ohio State’s Josh Proctor is coming off a breakout season having proven broken up nine passes this year and recording 47 tackles. He shows good agility and the fluid hips to hold up in man coverage. He also is an aggressive player who should do a good job of covering kicks in the NFL.