49ers Eyeing Offensive Tackle in 2026 NFL Draft, But Not Necessarily in Round 1

ESPN insider reveals San Francisco's draft strategy amid uncertainty around Trent Williams' future

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:09pm by

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented forms of an offensive line, with sharp planes of gold, red, and navy blue overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract representation of the position group.The 49ers' offensive line is a critical component of their contending roster, and the team is strategically planning for the future at the tackle position.San Francisco Today

The San Francisco 49ers are looking to address their offensive tackle position in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they may not use their first-round pick to do so. According to ESPN's Matt Miller, the 49ers view offensive tackle as a priority need, but they don't necessarily see it as a Round 1 priority, preferring to potentially target the position later in the draft as they prepare for life after veteran Trent Williams.

Why it matters

The 49ers' offensive line has been a strength in recent years, anchored by the reliable play of Trent Williams. However, with Williams' future uncertain, the 49ers need to start planning for the long-term at the tackle position. Addressing this need in the draft, even if not in the first round, will help ensure the 49ers' offensive line remains a strength as they aim to contend for a Super Bowl in the coming seasons.

The details

According to Miller's reporting, the 49ers view offensive tackle as a priority position of need in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they may not use their first-round pick, 27th overall, to address it. Instead, the team could target the position later in the draft, potentially with their second-round pick (58th overall) or even on Day 3. This strategy suggests the 49ers want to develop a young tackle to eventually replace the veteran Williams, but they don't want to rely on a rookie in a critical role right away as they aim to contend for a championship.

  • The 49ers hold the 27th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Trent Williams

The 49ers' veteran offensive tackle whose future with the team is uncertain.

John Lynch

The 49ers' general manager who will be responsible for addressing the team's offensive tackle need in the draft.

Kyle Shanahan

The 49ers' head coach who will work closely with Lynch to identify the right offensive tackle prospects to target in the draft.

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What they’re saying

“In reading the tea leaves and talking to people around the league, the 49ers don't necessarily view offensive tackle as a Round 1 priority.”

— Matt Miller, ESPN Insider

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to evaluate their options at offensive tackle leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, and they may look to address the position later in the draft rather than with their first-round pick.

The takeaway

The 49ers' approach to the offensive tackle position in the 2026 NFL Draft reflects their desire to find a long-term solution to replace the aging Trent Williams, but also their commitment to building a roster that can contend for a Super Bowl in the near future. By potentially targeting the position later in the draft, the 49ers can add depth and development at a critical position without sacrificing their ability to address more immediate needs with their first-round pick.