Niners Nation
The 49ers have multiple needs along the offensive line. In this mock draft, they address two of those positions.
Mock drafts are flying following the Senior Bowl and ahead of the NFL Scouting Combine at the end of February. The 49ers are sitting pretty with ten draft picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, including pick 11 in the first round. With the amount of picks, the 49ers have sufficient ammo to move up and go after a player high on their board.
Round 1, Pick 11 - OT Kelvin Banks, Jr., Texas
An injury-riddled and disappointing 2024 season gives way to the eternal optimism of the offseason for the San Francisco 49ers. However, with at least three defensive starters likely to hit free agency and an aging, underperforming offensive line, plenty of work must be done.
The star power remains on offense, but expect San Francisco to aggressively target both sides of the trenches in this year’s draft as they look to reclaim their spot atop the NFC West.
Banks elevated his game in 2024, allowing just one sack and 10 total pressures across 538 pass-blocking snaps for the Longhorns.
Verdict: Banks’ ability to get to the second level is an asset for Kyle Shanahan’s system. Combine his athletic ability with his pass protection, and this feels like a glove and hand fit.
Round 2, Pick 43 - OL Gary Zabel, North Dakota State
Zabel was one of the standout performers at Senior Bowl week, showcasing the versatility and physicality needed to excel at multiple positions. He dominated at his level of competition in 2024, allowing just seven total pressures while grading positively on 23.3% of outside zone runs for the Bison.
Verdict: Zabel’s performance at the Senior Bowl has likely pushed him out of the 49ers range in the second round. During one-on-one drills against his teammates, Zabel was consistently winning his reps but struggled during the game against various defensive linemen from bigger schools and conferences.
Round 3, Pick 75 - EDGE Landon Jackson, Arkansas
Extreme depth at the position and questions about Jackson’s fluidity could push him down the draft board, but his outstanding college production against the run is undeniable. His 88.7 run-defense grade ranked second in the draft class, trailing only Marshall’s Mike Green.
Verdict: It’s hard to believe Jackson will be around at pick 75, but the 49ers would be wise to swing on the EDGE from Arkansas in an effort to get Nick Bosa his running mate.
Round 3, Pick 99 - CB Quincy Riley, Louisville
Over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, opposing quarterbacks completed just 41.4% of passes when targeting Riley’s coverage.
**Verdict: Riley is a ball hawk. With the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator and the potential loss of Mooney Ward, it’s wise to...
