Two Position Groups the 49ers Don’t Need to Target in the Draft

Sep 7, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch watches pregame warmups against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

Two Position Groups the 49ers Don’t Need to Target in the Draft

Originally posted on San Francisco 49ers on SI
By Henry Cheal | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 9:00 PM ET

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The San Francisco 49ers made several notable moves in free agency, strengthening key parts of the roster on both sides of the ball.

The shopping list was extensive, and the 49ers have addressed a large portion of their needs. The front office added two wide receivers in Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, re-signed kicker Eddy Piñeiro and tight end Jake Tonges, brought back Luke Gifford, and reunited with Dre Greenlaw after a year away. They also added several depth pieces along the offensive line, but no major names were added.

With the draft quickly approaching, the 49ers should continue to address both the offensive and defensive lines to bolster protection for Brock Purdy and further improve the pass rush, an area that has only been marginally strengthened following the signing of Osa Odighizuwa in exchange for a third round pick.

The 49ers don't need to add a quarterback

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One of the key talking points surrounding potential departures from the 49ers was quarterback Mac Jones.

His stock was at its highest after filling in for Brock Purdy for part of the regular season, yet no team came forward with an offer involving a high draft pick. With the NFL Draft approaching, selecting a quarterback would be a waste of a pick, particularly given the lack of trade interest in Jones.

Purdy is firmly established as the starter, while Jones provides reliable depth heading into the second year of his contract. As a result, investing in another quarterback would offer little immediate value. Building around the current roster gives the San Francisco 49ers a stronger chance to remain competitive in a loaded NFC.

The 49ers also don't need to draft a linebacker

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The front office doesn’t need to target a linebacker either. While the 49ers used several linebackers last season due to injuries, that can largely be viewed as a one-off situation.

They already have plenty of depth at the position, with nine linebackers currently on the roster, including a fully healthy Fred Warner in time for the new season.

Although it would be expected that Gifford and Garret Wallow will primarily contribute on special teams, there is still no real need to draft a linebacker.

Using a draft pick here would overlook more urgent needs. The 49ers are in a position to invest their first-round pick in the offensive line or at defensive end, both areas where the franchise desperately needs further support.

This article first appeared on San Francisco 49ers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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