49ers draft strategy: John Lynch addresses urgency to fix pass rush

The San Francisco 49ers have long prioritized pressuring opposing quarterbacks, but that identity slipped last season. The defense managed just 20 sacks—the fewest in the NFL by a wide margin—highlighting a clear need entering the 2026 NFL Draft.

General manager John Lynch reiterated the importance of a strong pass rush during his pre-draft press conference on Monday.

"First of all, when we got together here 10 years ago, that was always going to be at the forefront—the more good players you can add up front," Lynch said. "We've always talked about making life on opposing offenses, on opposing quarterbacks [tough]. You want them to have to perform under duress. It's the great equalizer in today's football.

"So much is set up for the offense to have success. Can you put that quarterback under duress? Can you hit that quarterback? Can you pressure that quarterback? We fell short of that last year."

Injuries played a significant role in those struggles. The 49ers lost Nick Bosa and 2025 first-round pick Mykel Williams to torn ACLs, limiting the defensive front's effectiveness. That had a ripple effect on the rest of the defense.

"We need to get these guys back healthy, and then we need to improve there," Lynch said.

That urgency has fueled speculation that San Francisco could again target the defensive line early, with many mock drafts linking the team to an edge rusher at No. 27 overall.

Still, the 49ers have already taken steps to bolster the front. The team acquired defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, who recorded just 3.5 sacks last season but generated 112 pressures over the past two years.

"We really believe that he's going to impact who we are in all facets of the game," Lynch said.

San Francisco also expects growth from defensive end Keion White in his second year with the team. Even so, adding another pass rusher remains firmly on the table as the draft approaches.

"You're always trying to add there, and we'll be open to that," Lynch concluded.