San Francisco 49ers 2025 NFL Draft Analysis
The San Francisco 49ers experienced a challenging 2024 NFL season, culminating in their second Super Bowl loss within five years. Following this disappointment, the team entered the 2025 offseason with significant changes, losing key players to free agency and trade.
Offseason Departures
The 49ers have parted ways with several prominent players, including:
- Deebo Samuel (WR)
- Charvarius Ward (CB)
- Talanoa Hufanga (S)
- Dre Greenlaw (LB)
- Aaron Banks (G)
With these departures, San Francisco made limited additions, offering multi-year contracts to only four of nine free agent signings. This creates an opportunity for emerging talent through the upcoming NFL Draft.
Draft Strategy and Needs
Heading into the draft, the 49ers hold an advantageous position, making their earliest selection since 2021 and possessing additional picks in the later rounds. The team is intent on rejuvenating an aging roster, which has pressing needs at several positions.
Fans and analysts anticipate that the 49ers will prioritize enhancing their defensive line early in the draft. Currently, the team lacks depth beyond star edge rusher Nick Bosa, but the draft class features substantial talent along the defensive line.
Additionally, there is a consensus among mock draft analysts that the team will look to shore up its offensive line. With veteran left tackle Trent Williams reaching 37 this season and right tackle Colton McKivitz entering a contract year, bolstering this unit is crucial. Guard Dominick Puni emerged as a promising young player, yet further reinforcement is warranted.
2025 NFL Draft Selections
Here’s a closer look at the 49ers’ draft picks and the analysis of their selections:
Round 1, Pick 11: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia
Grades: Ayrton Ostly: A- | Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz: B
Williams is noted for his impressive physical attributes, especially his long arms and sturdy build. Despite playing through injuries in 2024, he showcased his potential and is expected to develop into a valuable asset for the 49ers alongside Bosa.
Round 2, Pick 43: Alfred Collins, DT, Texas
Grades: Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz: B | Ayrton Ostly: A
Collins adds depth to the interior of the defensive line and aligns well with the team’s need for a robust presence in the middle.
Round 3, Pick 75: Nick Martin, LB, Oklahoma State
Martin is recognized for his playmaking ability, highlighted by his speed. However, concerns about his size and tackling technique raise questions about his fit within a defense that has other urgent priorities.
Round 3, Pick 100: Upton Stout, CB, Western Kentucky
Stout is an aggressive competitor and could emerge as a useful slot cornerback. His size may pose challenges against larger receivers, making his role in the secondary an area of development.
Round 4, Pick 113: CJ West, DT, Indiana
West brings both strength and agility to the defensive line, poised to impact the line of scrimmage significantly.
Round 4, Pick 138: Jordan Watkins, WR, Ole Miss
Watkins, despite being undersized, possesses notable speed and a history of significant production. However, the team faces larger needs, particularly on the offensive line.
Round 5, Pick 147: Jordan James, RB, Oregon
James is a robust running back who excels in pass protection. While he is a solid player, the team could have prioritized more pressing concerns in this round.
Round 5, Pick 160: Marques Sigle, S, Kansas State
Sigle’s versatility as a hybrid safety adds depth to the backfield, though this pick may be seen as a luxury given other required positions.
Round 7, Pick 227: Kurtis Rourke, QB, Indiana
Rourke’s potential as a developmental quarterback might benefit from competition and experience at this stage of his career.
Round 7, Pick 249: Connor Colby, G, Iowa
Colby offers potential as an interior lineman and could become a solid backup option in the future.
Round 7, Pick 252: Junior Bergen, WR, Montana
Bergen’s specialization as a returner showcases his unique skill set, providing the team with an immediate option in that role.
Conclusion
With a total of 11 picks, the 49ers are well-positioned to revamp their roster in the 2025 NFL Draft. While many selections appear focused on the defense, addressing crucial areas on the offensive line remains a critical challenge as they aim for a successful turnaround after a challenging offseason.
