The 49ers could upgrade the line of scrimmage early in the NFL Draft, but Mel Kiper has them going in a different direction in his latest mock.
If one was to comb through the many San Francisco 49ers mock NFL Draft content out there, the probable trend would be grabbing either an offensive or defensive lineman at No. 11 overall.
Heck, we've done it. Multiple times, too.
Both sides of the line of scrimmage are needs for general manager John Lynch and Co., yes. But that's not the direction ESPN draft analyst and mock expert Mel Kiper Jr. has them going in Round 1.
In Kiper's latest mock, which straddles the beginning of the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, the Niners prioritize the secondary by selecting Michigan cornerback Will Johnson with their top pick this April.
Here's what Kiper had to say about the selection:
"Johnson is right there with Hunter for CB1 in this class despite missing a lot of time in 2024 with an injury. During his time at Michigan, Johnson picked off nine passes, showcasing high-end instincts and quickness. With Charvarius Ward hitting free agency, there’s a spot open opposite Deommodore Lenoir at corner, too. The 49ers allowed opponents a 58.5 QBR this past season, ranking in the bottom third. For San Francisco to get back on top in the NFC West, the secondary needs some love."
San Francisco locked up Lenoir last year, yes. And second-year pro Renardo Green is on the ascent after an impressive rookie campaign.
But Ward's departure is problematic, and there aren't any likable on-roster options to boost the 49ers' defensive backfield.
As far as shutdown corners go, Johnson is an epitome. Take a look at any scouting report, and one can see why he's one of the top two cornerbacks in this year's class.
Yet there's another reason why the 49ers going after Johnson here makes sense.
49ers can address cornerback need 1st, focus on other needs later
Each NFL Draft class is its own unique "animal," and the 2025 class is no different.
It's a weak year for wide receivers, the tight end crop is amazing and the true depth of talent resides on both the offensive and defensive lines. Plus, many pundits feel there isn't a substantial drop from prospects ranked in the 20s to the 50s.
As for corners, it's not particularly deep a class. So, while the Niners certainly need to beef up their defensive line while finding upgrades on the O-line, it's a logical strategy to table those targets until Rounds 2 or 3, perhaps even later. Sure, this would prevent San Francisco from getting high-profile prospects like Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart or LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell.
But, if the 49ers get an elite-level cornerback prospect while still landing solid O- and D-linemen later, it might be more than worthwhile.
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