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NFLPreview
NFL Analyst Previews Niners' OL Draft Options
TL;DR
The San Francisco 49ers are expected to prioritize drafting an offensive lineman in the 2026 NFL Draft, particularly to address the potential absence of Trent Williams. Analyst Matt Maiocco outlines possible draft targets for the team.
Key points
- San Francisco 49ers need an offensive lineman for the 2026 NFL Draft
- Trent Williams' potential absence raises concerns for the tackle position
- Brock Purdy's protection is a priority for the team's offensive strategy
San Francisco 49ers
NFL Analyst Previews Niners' OL Draft Options
It's the worst kept secret of the San Francisco 49ers plans for the 2026 NFL draft: The Niners need an offensive lineman. Whether or not they get one early is still to be seen, but the need there is clear.
We have discussed at length the potential for a season without Trent Williams manning the left tackle spot. Undoubtedly, that poses a bleak outlook at the tackle position for the Niners in 2026. While there are needs elsewhere it makes sense that the Niners may opt to narrow their focus to protecting starting quarterback Brock Purdy's blind side.
NBC Sports' Matt Maiocco discussed a few options that the Niners might consider drafting this season. Here is what Maiocco has to say about the team's possible draft targets this week.
"The 49ers hosted offensive tackles Kadyn Proctor (Alabama) and Caleb Lomu (Utah) on pre-draft visits to Santa Clara. It is possible if they were to select either player, it would be with the idea of starting them at left guard on Day 1 before moving to left tackle when Williams leaves.
Max Iheanachor (Arizona State) could also be an option in the first round. He is new to the game and might require a year of development before taking over. After the first round, Caleb Tiernan (Northwestern), Markel Bell (Miami), Jude Bowrey (Boston College), Drew Shelton (Penn State) and Austin Barber (Florida) are worth monitoring.
Because of the opening at left guard, the 49ers might seek to fill that spot with one of their top two selections. Chase Bisontis (Texas A&M), Keylan Rutledge (Georgia Tech) and Gennings Dunker (Iowa) are strong options."
Q&A
What are the San Francisco 49ers' offensive line needs for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The 49ers need to secure an offensive lineman, especially considering the uncertain future of Trent Williams at left tackle.
Who is Brock Purdy and why is his protection important for the 49ers?
Brock Purdy is the starting quarterback for the 49ers, and protecting his blind side is crucial for the team's offensive success.
What options does Matt Maiocco suggest for the 49ers' draft strategy?
Matt Maiocco discusses various potential draft targets that the 49ers might consider to strengthen their offensive line.
