49ers Eyeing Offensive Tackle in Draft Amid Trent Williams Contract Uncertainty

Mel Kiper's latest mock draft has San Francisco targeting a right tackle to potentially replace the aging Trent Williams.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:25pm by Ben Kaplan

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According to ESPN's Mel Kiper, the San Francisco 49ers are considering selecting an offensive tackle in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft to potentially replace the aging Trent Williams, whose contract situation remains uncertain. Kiper's mock draft has the 49ers targeting Dawand Miller, a 6'7", 317-pound tackle who primarily played on the right side in college.

Why it matters

The 49ers' offensive line was a strength in 2025, but the team faces questions about the long-term future of left tackle Trent Williams, who will be 38 years old before the 2026 season. Drafting a tackle like Miller could provide insurance and a potential successor to Williams, ensuring the 49ers maintain a strong offensive line to protect quarterback Brock Purdy.

The details

Kiper believes the 49ers could target Miller at pick No. 27, noting that while he primarily played right tackle in college, he could potentially transition to the left side if the team is unable to re-sign the veteran Williams. The 49ers also signed Vederian Lowe in free agency, providing additional depth and competition at the tackle position.

  • The 49ers' 2026 season will begin in September 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for late April 2026.

The players

Trent Williams

A veteran left tackle for the San Francisco 49ers who is facing an uncertain contract situation as he approaches his 38th birthday.

Dawand Miller

A 6'7", 317-pound offensive tackle prospect who primarily played on the right side in college and is projected as a potential first-round pick for the 49ers in Mel Kiper's mock draft.

Brock Purdy

The starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, who will need a strong offensive line to protect him and allow him to play at an elite level.

Colton McKivitz

A right tackle for the San Francisco 49ers who had a breakout season in 2025, earning a 90.3 PFF run-blocking grade.

Vederian Lowe

A free agent offensive tackle signed by the San Francisco 49ers to provide depth and competition at the tackle position.

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What they’re saying

“You probably see an offensive tackle to San Francisco and think 'Trent Williams heir apparent,' but Miller actually played 97% of his college snaps on the right side. Perhaps he'd transition to left tackle if the Niners can't figure out Williams' contract situation, but I like Miller as an upgrade over Colton McKivitz on the right side regardless of what happens there.”

— Mel Kiper, ESPN Draft Analyst

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to monitor the Trent Williams contract situation and evaluate their options at the tackle position leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft in late April.

The takeaway

The 49ers' offensive line was a strength in 2025, but the team faces uncertainty about the long-term future of veteran left tackle Trent Williams. Drafting a talented tackle like Dawand Miller could provide insurance and a potential successor to Williams, ensuring the 49ers maintain a strong offensive line to protect quarterback Brock Purdy.