The San Francisco 49ers finished the season with a disappointing 6–11 record—their worst showing since 2020. While injuries to several key players contributed significantly to their struggles, the team also needs to address multiple upgrade areas on both sides of the ball, including the offensive and defensive lines as well as special teams.
San Francisco 49ers 7-round 2025 NFL Mock draft
The 49ers kick off their draft by selecting Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. Known for his quick feet and athleticism, Banks has the potential to eventually replace a veteran Trent Williams, who turns 37 next season. In the short term, he could step in at right tackle, filling in for Colton McKivitz.
In addition to shoring up the offensive line, San Francisco needs to bolster its defensive front. With Leonard Floyd set to be 33 next season, the 49ers are on the lookout for a defensive end who can complement Nick Bosa over the long term. Ole Miss’s Princely Umanmielen—despite a somewhat rocky Senior Bowl performance—has first-round talent that may slide to this pick.
49ers add new skill players on offense and defense, depth at key positions
Questions remain on the receiving corps, particularly regarding Deebo Samuel’s return and Brandon Aiyuk’s recovery from a torn ACL. Utah State’s Jalen Royals is a dynamic, speedy wide receiver who would add depth to the offense and contribute significantly on special teams.
With the likely loss of free agent cornerback Charvarius Ward this offseason, replacing him becomes a priority. Ohio State’s Denzel Burke is a physical cornerback with strong man-to-man skills, fresh off an impressive playoff run with the Buckeyes.
Ohio State CB Denzel Burke in the College Football Playoffs:
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 24, 2025
🔴 116 Coverage Snaps
🔴 4 Catches Allowed
🔴 43 Yards Allowed
🔴 53.3 Passer Rating Allowed@OhioStateFB pic.twitter.com/sXrfmmPJgb
San Francisco hopes to replicate last year’s success with mid-round gem Dominick Puni by selecting Georgia’s Dylan Fairchild. An athletic offensive guard, Fairchild fits well into the 49ers’ zone-blocking scheme and would serve as valuable insurance for Aaron Banks, who battled injuries this past season.
Adding further depth to the offensive line, the 49ers select Oregon tackle Ajani Cornelius. Cornelius is a prototypical right tackle who, with development, could eventually take over the starting role once Kelvin Banks transitions to left tackle.
One of the team's weaknesses this year was the defensive tackle position, which struggled against the run—especially with Javon Hargrave missing much of the season. Florida State’s Joshua Farmer, a 6’3", 314-pound defensive tackle with impressive quickness and a standout Senior Bowl performance, could fill that gap.
After firing special teams coach Brian Schneider due to subpar play last season, the 49ers are looking to upgrade their coverage units, which ranked near the bottom of the NFL. Virginia safety Jonas Sanker, known for his great instincts and contributions on kickoff and punt coverage for the Cavaliers, is a promising candidate to improve that unit.
🚨 JONAS SANKER INT 🚨
— ACC Football (@ACCFootball) November 10, 2024
📺 @accnetwork x @UVAFootball pic.twitter.com/avCS996Axr
On day three, the 49ers need to address their tight end depth. With George Kittle as the clear starter and no other tight end logging more than 11 catches last season, Alabama’s CJ Dippre—a big, physical player who excels after the catch—could offer a much-needed boost.
Another pick aimed at bolstering special teams, Iowa’s Nick Jackson has recorded at least 90 tackles in each of the past five seasons. His athleticism should translate well to roles in both kickoff and punt coverage.
With their final pick in the draft, the 49ers select Kentucky center Eli Cox. An impressive athlete capable of playing both guard and center, Cox will add valuable depth to an already prioritized offensive line.