49ers bolster critical position in 2026 NFL mock draft

CBS Sports draft analyst Mike Renner has released his fourth 2026 NFL mock draft, projecting that the San Francisco 49ers will address one of their most pressing needs. Coordinator Robert Saleh's defense has endured multiple injury blows this season, including season-ending ACL tears to pass rushers Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams.

San Francisco's only in-season trade acquisition was pass rusher Keion White, a move made to strengthen the edge rotation. Many expected the 49ers to be more aggressive at the trade deadline, but the asking price for top-tier defenders was too steep for general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan.

That's why Renner projects the 49ers to use the No. 23 overall pick on Clemson defensive end T.J. Parker in the 2026 NFL Draft.

"Parker has had a disappointing season, but the physical talent is obviously still there," Renner wrote. "He's a powerful three-down 4-3 defensive end. His addition would provide the 49ers some insurance with Nick Bosa's health and give them a rotation of edge rushers."

While Parker (6-3, 260) has logged only two sacks through 10 games this season, he posted a career-high 11 sacks in 2024 and has 18.5 across his collegiate career. He's also totaled 121 career tackles and 38.5 tackles for loss.

With a run-defense grade of 80.6 or higher from Pro Football Focus in each of his three seasons, Parker fits the 49ers' recent emphasis on adding stout run defenders. His blend of physical traits and long-term potential could help San Francisco overlook his dip in defensive grade—from 88.1 in 2024 to 82.7 in 2025—and a drop in pass-rush grade from 86.2 in 2024 to 75.2 in 2025.