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Mel Kiper predicts 49ers focus on the trenches in 2-round mock draft
TL;DR
Mel Kiper predicts the San Francisco 49ers will focus on strengthening their offensive and defensive lines in the upcoming draft, selecting Max Iheanachor and Gabe Jacas. These picks address immediate needs and future concerns as key players face contract issues and health challenges.
The San Francisco 49ers need support on either side of the line of scrimmage, and ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. addressed that in his newest two-round mock draft. Kiper picked Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor at No. 27 and Illinois defensive end Gabe Jacas at No. 58.
The reasons are simple: Trent Williams isn't getting any younger and has contract issues to work out, while the 49ers lack health and depth on the defensive line. Both Iheanachor and Jacas fill two of the 49ers' biggest needs and also support both positions for the long-term.
Here's what Kiper had to say about both picks:
The 49ers are still working toward a resolution with Trent Williams on his contract situation, but this pick works regardless of the outcome. The legendary left tackle is turning 38 during training camp this summer, meaning San Francisco has to think about the future no matter what. Iheanachor started 31 games in college, has long 33⅞-inch arms and is quick out of his set. But he's also relatively new to football, having never played before 2022. He could use a little time to develop before eventually becoming the guy.
The Niners were down Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams last season, and their respective returns will do wonders to the edge rush. But there's no getting around the team's 20 sacks last season, by far the lowest total in the league. Jacas had 11 sacks last season; he would at the very least provide depth in case starters go down again.
Reports indicate the 49ers won't prioritize offensive line in Round 1, but that doesn't mean they won't take a player that falls to them or one they feel won't be available at No. 58. Iheanachor has been rising up draft boards over the past few weeks and would be a solid short- and long-term option for San Francisco.
Similarly, Jacas is a productive player who could start on Day 1 and certainly flesh out the edge rushing room that lacks depth and stability.
With no third-round pick, the 49ers need to make sure they strike while the iron is hot on their first two selections. This class could deliver on that promise.
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: Mel Kiper predicts 49ers focus on the trenches in 2-round mock draft
Q&A
Who did Mel Kiper predict the 49ers will draft in the 2026 NFL mock draft?
Mel Kiper predicts the 49ers will draft offensive tackle Max Iheanachor from Arizona State at No. 27 and defensive end Gabe Jacas from Illinois at No. 58.
Why do the 49ers need to focus on the offensive and defensive lines?
The 49ers need to strengthen their lines due to Trent Williams' aging and contract issues, as well as a lack of depth and health on the defensive line, which contributed to their league-low 20 sacks last season.
What are the potential impacts of drafting Max Iheanachor and Gabe Jacas for the 49ers?
Drafting Iheanachor and Jacas would address critical needs for the 49ers, providing long-term support for the offensive line and enhancing depth on the defensive line, especially in light of injuries to key players.
