49ers Must Nail 2025 Draft With Rookies Expected to Step Up
The San Francisco 49ers have taken a different approach to the offseason, making minimal moves in free agency while parting ways with key defensive linemen. That strategy has put even more pressure on the 2025 NFL Draft, where the team must find immediate contributors.
General manager John Lynch typically drafts with the future in mind, selecting players a year ahead of expected roster needs. But with several veteran departures and a thinning defensive line, the 49ers can’t afford to wait—this year’s rookies will need to contribute right away.
Defensive Line Woes Demand Attention
San Francisco released defensive tackles Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins, along with defensive end Leonard Floyd. Those three started a combined 56 games last season, leaving a massive hole in the trenches. If the season started today, the 49ers would be relying on Nick Bosa and Yetur Gross-Matos at defensive end, with Jordan Elliott and Kevin Givens at defensive tackle—a significant downgrade from last year’s unit.
With free agency offering little relief, the draft is the team’s best chance to reload. Luckily, this year’s class is deep at defensive line, which may have influenced the 49ers’ decision to trim salary and get younger. The team holds four picks in the top 100 and eight in the top 160, giving them plenty of chances to reinforce the front seven.
Drafting for the Present and Future
The 49ers followed a similar approach last year, drafting players to prepare for anticipated departures. Ricky Pearsall was selected ahead of Deebo Samuel’s trade to Washington, and Renardo Green is set to replace Charvarius Ward, who signed with the Colts. Guard Dominick Puni was drafted as insurance for Aaron Banks, who left for Green Bay, and fourth-round pick Malik Mustapha will step in after Talanoa Hufanga’s move to Denver.
Looking ahead, the 49ers will prioritize contract extensions for Brock Purdy and George Kittle, ensuring their core remains intact. However, with wide receiver Jauan Jennings and right tackle Colton McKivitz entering contract years, those positions could also be addressed in the draft.
With so many roster holes and limited spending flexibility, the 49ers must hit on their draft picks. The success of their 2025 season could depend on it.
Why the 49ers Will Rely Heavily on Their 2025 Draft Class
