49ers mock draft roundup: Experts split on No. 27 overall pick

The 2026 NFL Draft is just days away, and final mock drafts are rolling in as analysts attempt to predict how teams like the San Francisco 49ers will address key roster needs.

Here's a look at several of the latest projections, starting with a pair of first-round mocks from CBS Sports.

Two very different directions from CBS Sports

Josh Edwards of CBS Sports released a first-round mock draft in which the 49ers bolster their wide receiver group with former Indiana standout Omar Cooper Jr.

San Francisco's receiver room has undergone significant turnover this offseason, moving on from Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, and Skyy Moore—with Brandon Aiyuk next. To compensate, the team added veteran pass catchers Mike Evans and Christian Kirk.

"San Francisco's receiver room may look a lot different in 2026 with Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, and Jauan Jennings all gone," Edwards wrote. "Enter Mike Evans, Christian Kirk, and now Omar Cooper Jr. Three wide sets would include Ricky Pearsall, Evans, and Cooper."

Meanwhile, fellow CBS Sports contributor Carter Bahns projects a completely different approach. In his first-round mock, the 49ers use the No. 27 overall pick on former Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk, addressing a defensive front that produced an NFL-low 20 sacks last season.

"The ACL injuries to Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams last year emphasized why the 49ers need to load up on edge rusher depth." Bahns wrote. "What is typically a disruptive defense turned into one of the league's worst at affecting the quarterback with those two on the sideline. Of course, this group could stay healthy in 2026 and return to form, but is that really a safe bet?

"Many expected the 49ers to bring in some pass-rushing help in free agency, but after they stayed quiet on that front, it would be in their best interest to add another weapon through the draft. Keldric Faulk and Cashius Howell are the two best options at No. 27, and we'll go with the former because of Howell's arm-length concerns."

Three-round mock targets trenches early

Ryan Guthrie of Pro Football & Sports Network released a three-round mock draft that has San Francisco focusing heavily on the trenches.

With their first-round selection, Guthrie projects the 49ers to select former Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu as a long-term successor to Trent Williams, who will turn 38 in July.

"The San Francisco 49ers stay true to their formula here, investing in the offensive line by selecting Caleb Lomu to keep things steady up front," Guthrie wrote. "At 6-foot-5, 302 pounds, Lomu brings a really intriguing mix of athleticism and length. During his time at Utah, he showed quick feet, easy movement in space, and the ability to stay in front of edge rushers. These are traits that fit well in San Francisco's scheme, where linemen are asked to move and block at the second level more frequently.

"He's a bit lighter than some tackles, but he makes up for it with balance, flexibility, and solid technique in pass protection. He can recover when he gets beat early and does a good job staying under control against both speed and power."

In the second round (No. 58 overall), Guthrie has the 49ers addressing their inconsistent pass rush by selecting former Illinois edge rusher Gabe Jacas.

"Gabe Jacas gives them exactly the kind of reinforcement they need," Guthrie wrote. "He headlined Illinois' defense in 2025, putting up 11 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss while earning All-Big Ten recognition. At 6'3″, 260 pounds, he brings a strong, physical profile with an explosive first step and the kind of hand power that shows up when he's finishing through contact.

"For most of his career, he's worked out of a two-point stance standing up, and you can see the mobility in his game, but there's a real case that he can grow into even more as a down lineman with his power he possesses through his hands. This is about building out the rotation. With Nick Bosa leading the group and Mykel Williams in the mix, adding Jacas gives them another body they can trust to step in and keep the pressure consistent."