49ers' 2026 NFL Mock Draft Highlights Offensive Line and Edge Rushers

San Francisco has six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on strengthening the trenches and adding defensive playmakers.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:36am by

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a 49ers football game, with sharp planes of red, gold, and black representing the team's emphasis on the trenches in the upcoming draft.A cubist interpretation of the 49ers' strategic approach to the 2026 NFL Draft, emphasizing the team's focus on strengthening the offensive line and pass rush.San Francisco Today

The San Francisco 49ers have six picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, and their selections are expected to address needs on the offensive line and edge rush. While opinions differ on whether they will take an offensive tackle in the first round, the 49ers are likely to target wide receivers and edge rushers early on. They also aim to fortify the interior offensive line with their later picks.

Why it matters

The 49ers are looking to build on their recent success and solidify their roster for the future. Strengthening the offensive line and pass rush are crucial for their long-term competitiveness in the NFC West. Addressing these areas could help the 49ers maintain their status as one of the top teams in the conference.

The details

The 49ers have the 27th overall pick in the first round, where they could target an offensive tackle or a wide receiver. They are also expected to select multiple edge rushers and offensive linemen later in the draft to add depth and competition to those positions. The team's six picks will be crucial in shaping their roster for the 2026 season and beyond.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April 2026.

The players

Howell

An edge rusher with impressive athleticism and a high-upside pass-rushing skill set, according to NFL analyst Dane Brugler.

Dunker

An offensive lineman who may project better as a guard at the NFL level due to his limited athleticism, according to NFL.com's Lance Zierlein.

Sapp

A powerful edge rusher who can set the edge against the run and create stalemates against interior offensive linemen, according to Bleacher Report's Matt Holder.

Zuhn

An offensive lineman with starting potential at center or guard, though he may lack the ideal athleticism to play tackle in the NFL, per NFL.com's Lance Zierlein.

Barber

A tall tackle prospect with starting experience, but he may struggle to anchor against power rushers, according to NFL.com's Lance Zierlein.

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What they’re saying

“The NFL covets dynamic space athletes, and Howell brings plenty of juice off the edge. With his get-off burst, he eats up the tackle's cushion and uses his agility, hip flexibility, and aggressive hands to get blockers off balance using his rush sequencing.”

— Dane Brugler, NFL Analyst

“Dunker is a three-year starter with a pro-ready frame but limited athleticism that is likely to push him inside to guard. He plays with average pad level, heavy hands, and enough upper-body power to displace defenders if he plays with more consistent hand placement.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst

“(Sapp has a) thick build and carries his frame well with little-to-no bad weight. (He has) very good upper body strength to get extension on blocks and stand up offensive tackles. Also, Sapp is quick to get his hands up as a run defender and can knock linemen climbing to the second level off their path to help free up linebackers.”

— Matt Holder, Bleacher Report Analyst

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to evaluate prospects and finalize their draft board in the weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place in late April.

The takeaway

The 49ers' 2026 NFL Draft class is shaping up to be one focused on strengthening the trenches on both sides of the ball. By targeting offensive linemen and edge rushers, the team is positioning itself to maintain a physical, dominant style of play that has been a hallmark of their recent success.