49ers last-guess 7-round mock before 2022 NFL Draft kicks off
By Peter Panacy
Round 4, Pick No. 134 Overall: 49ers select OT Kellen Diesch, Arizona State
It was a bit strange to see Arizona State offensive tackle Kellen Diesch available towards the tail end of Round 4, but as any NFL Draft fan knows, that’s what can easily happen to any given player any given year.
Especially in this year’s draft, which seems awfully fluid from late in the first round all the way through the beginning of day three.
Nevertheless, San Francisco doesn’t have to overthink this one. The 6-foot-7, 310-pound Diesch is notably athletic and moves well, having run a 4.89 40-yard time at the NFL Scouting Combine. And while he might initially struggle with speed rushers at the pro level, his pass-blocking efforts are good enough to suggest he’ll find a long-term home without being too big a liability.
The 49ers could potentially have a need for a tackle, too, especially with right tackle Mike McGlinchey working his way back from a torn quad suffered last season and entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Should the Niners let McGlinchey walk after 2022, they’ll need an experienced replacement.
Giving Diesch a year to serve as San Francisco’s primary swing tackle would certainly help his development towards being an every-down starter a year from now.