Per the NFL's official website, 319 players have been invited to the 2026 rendition of the annual scouting combine in Indianapolis. Among those the San Francisco 49ers should keep on their radar is USC standout wide receiver Makai Lemon.
Lemon has a unique name that alone attracts attention but is also widely considered one of the top prospects in this year's draft class. There will be plenty of eyes on him at what is known as the "ultimate four-day job interview." He's a remarkable playmaker whose ties to the Golden State notably run deep and would fill a glaring need for the 49ers.
It's possible, if not probable, Lemon won't be available when the 49ers are on the clock in the first round in April. FanSided's most recent mock draft has the New York Jets selecting him at pick No. 16. However, that's within striking distance for San Francisco to trade up, which could prove tempting with a strong showing in Indy.
USC star WR Makai Lemon could win over 49ers at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine
Who doesn't love a homecoming story? Lemon, a Los Alamitos, California native and USC product, certainly fits that bill for the 49ers. Yet, above all, he has the potential to be No. 1 wideout the 49ers are sorely lacking.
Across 12 games as a junior in 2025, Lemon caught 79 passes for 1156 yard and 11 touchdowns. His efforts earned him Consensus All-American honors and the Fred Biletnikoff Award, which is given to the most outstanding receiver in college football. He has elite athleticism and a remarkable résumé to boot.
A crisp route-runner with great hands who thrives from the slot but wins on all three levels, Lemon's a good fit for today's era of innovation. Having a versatile weapon that can move around the formation like a chess piece is a game-changer, and he has the skill to do just that. Play-callers are more creative than ever, like 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, who can definitely put a shiny toy like this to use.
The 49ers can desperately benefit from an influx of pass-catching talent. Disgruntled receiver Brandon Aiyuk has seemingly already played his final snap with the club, and Jauan Jennings is slated for unrestricted free agency. Star tight end George Kittle will be coming off a torn Achilles whenever he's ready to return next season.