49ers mock 2022 NFL Draft after dust settles from free agency

Round 1, Pick No. 61 Overall: 49ers select OT Abraham Lucas, Washington State

Niner Noise’s conversations with Rob Lowder of the Striking Gold Podcast, and a Niner Noise alumnus, changed the option of the 49ers needing a pass-rusher right out of the gate with their first pick.

Particularly with Laken Tomlinson leaving, along with other uncertainties here, the biggest question mark is the offensive line.

In addition to post-Tomlinson questions, the Niners may be looking to either replace right tackle Mike McGlinchey when his contract expires in 2023 or guard against the fact he’s coming off a torn quad and subsequent surgery last season. McGlinchey’s primary backup, Tom Compton, also left San Francisco via free agency, too, leaving only Colton McKivitz, Justin Skule and Jaylon Moore as on-roster replacements.

Not ideal.

Washington State offensive tackle Abraham Lucas rose up NFL Draft boards with an impressive 4.92 40-yard time, which is impressive for his 6-foot-6, 315-pound frame. There’s some rawness to his game, and he won’t be anywhere near the kind of run-blocker McGlinchey is. And as it stands now, Lucas might have to start off his career at the pro level inside at guard.

Still, the 49ers could stand for an upgrade at right guard with Daniel Brunskill there, too.

It wouldn’t be a flashy pick, but adding Lucas could help solve some of the growing issues along the O-line this offseason.