49ers News: Draft day

TL;DR

The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on potential late-round picks like Louisville DT Rene Konga. They are also evaluating their roster and considering upgrades to their offensive line.

Key points

49ers meet with Louisville DT Rene Konga ahead of the draft
Konga's pro day showcased impressive athleticism
49ers aim to upgrade their offensive line
Team evaluates young talent to replace aging veterans
General manager John Lynch maintains connections with college coaches

Mentioned in this story

John LynchKyle Shanahan

San Francisco 49ersLouisville Cardinals

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 17: San Francisco 49ers Defensive End Nick Bosa (97) hugs general manager John Lynch before the National Football League game between the Arizona Cardinals and the San Francisco 49ers on November 17, 2019, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, CA. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images **49ers meet with Louisville DT Rene Konga as 2026 NFL Draft nears** “Most projections peg Konga (6-3, 298 pounds) as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent. During Louisville’s pro day in March, he may have boosted his stock by posting a 4.79-second 40-yard dash, a 37-inch vertical jump, a 10-foot-2 broad jump, and 20 bench press reps.” **Predicting all six of 49ers’ 2026 NFL Draft picks in annual seven-round mock** “Connor Colby remains on the team after starting six games early in the season, but it is clear the 49ers are seeking an upgrade. It is likely that Chase Bisontis (Texas A&M) already will be chosen, but the 49ers would be pleased to add Rutledge. Rutledge, a first-team All-American, has the movement skills and toughness to slide into the starting lineup and never look back.” 49ers NFL Draft big board: 57 prospects to watch, including 11 in Round 1.” “Shanahan declined when asked to identify which young players could help form a similar group for the 49ers, not wanting to burden them with expectations. But he’s aware they’ll need to announce themselves soon given the complexion of their roster. The clock is ticking. “The good thing is we still have some of those (past draft picks) on our roster — so I still do feel we have some star power,” Shanahan said. “Yes, some of those guys are getting older. We’ll see which of these young guys step up. But I think we’ve got some young guys who will.” “The 49ers took Oregon’s Alex Harkey in that round in the Chronicle’s recent mock draft. Harkey also visited the 49ers before the draft and might have gotten on their radar last year when the 49ers were studying Oregon running back , whom they took in the fifth round. General manager John Lynch has a relationship with Ducks coach Dan Lanning, visiting the campus last year to learn about how Lanning helped build Oregon’s powerhouse program.”

Q&A

Who is Rene Konga and why is he being considered by the 49ers?

Rene Konga is a defensive tackle from Louisville projected as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent, noted for his impressive pro day performance.

What are the 49ers' needs heading into the 2026 NFL Draft?

The 49ers are looking to upgrade their offensive line and assess young talent as some veteran players age.

What is the significance of the 49ers' draft strategy for their future?

The 49ers' draft strategy is crucial for maintaining their competitiveness in the NFL, especially as they face an aging roster.