Why the 49ers May Not Pick an Edge Rusher in the NFL Draft

The San Francisco 49ers are evaluating their strategy for the 2026 NFL Draft as they approach pick No. 27, with a primary focus on whether to prioritize an edge rusher, a wide receiver, or the offensive line. While the team faces significant health challenges on the defensive line, some analysts suggest that the current roster composition may steer the team away from taking an edge rusher in the first round.

According to reporting from Niner Noise on April 12, 2026, there is a perspective that the 49ers may not utilize their top pick on an edge rusher. This viewpoint is based on the development of Mykel Williams, whom the team drafted in 2025. Although Williams suffered an ACL tear during his rookie season, he is viewed as a potential defensive cornerstone with a polished run-stopping game. Niner Noise notes that Williams projects as a sturdy, edge-setting end rather than a singular dominant pass-rusher, which may influence the team’s immediate drafting priorities.

Defensive Line Concerns and Personnel Needs

Despite the faith in Williams, the 49ers’ edge rushing depth is under pressure. The Athletic reported on April 7, 2026, that both current starters Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams are recovering from ACL tears. For Bosa, this marks the third ACL tear of his career and the second to his right knee.

the team is adjusting to the philosophy of incoming defensive coordinator Raheem Morris. The Athletic notes that the 49ers currently lack the specific type of edge rusher, weighing approximately 245 pounds, that Morris has successfully utilized in the past. This has led to speculation that the team may target available prospects at pick No. 27, including:

• Akheem Mesidor of Miami
• Malachi Lawrence of UCF
• Cashius Howell of Texas A&M
• Keidric Faulk of Auburn

The Offensive Line and the Win-Now Window

The offensive line presents another complex scenario, specifically regarding left tackle Trent Williams. As reported by Sports Illustrated on April 10, 2026, Williams is 38 years old and has one year remaining on his contract while currently engaged in a contract dispute.

While the age and contract status of Williams make the offensive tackle position a point of discussion for the first round, ESPN draft expert Matt Miller suggests the 49ers may not view the position as a Round 1 priority. Miller indicates that the organization is focused on winning a Super Bowl while its core players are in their prime, suggesting that a first-round tackle might provide long-term stability but less immediate impact for a championship run this year.

Wide Receiver Targets and Roster Health

The 49ers have already bolstered their receiving corps in free agency by adding Christian Kirk and Mike Evans. However, the team remains connected to the wide receiver position in the draft. Matt Miller has identified KC Concepcion of Texas A&M as a name to watch for San Francisco, noting that a wide receiver could provide both immediate impact and a replacement for aging veterans.

This urgency for immediate impact is compounded by several injuries across the roster. In addition to the ACL injuries to Bosa and Williams, George Kittle is injured and Fred Warner is returning from a serious injury. Notice also concerns regarding the health of Christian McCaffrey due to his workload during the previous season.

The 49ers’ decision at pick No. 27 will likely depend on whether they prioritize the specific pass-rushing profile desired by Raheem Morris or seek a high-impact player at wide receiver to maximize their current championship window.