The 49ers' biggest needs this offseason are located on their defensive line. They've drafted just one defensive lineman in the past two drafts -- edge rusher Robert Beal Jr., who has just one sack in two seasons.
Much has been made of the fact the San Francisco 49ers did not draft an offensive tackle in a year in which it was arguably their biggest need. San Francisco's decision in that regard puts a lot of pressure on right tackle Colton McKivitz to perform to a much higher standard than he did in his first season as the starter in 2023.
The 49ers desperately need a starting defensive end opposite Nick Bosa. The only other defensive ends on the roster currently are Drake Jackson and Robert Beal Jr., and neither one is a starter.
After safety Tayler Hawkins got on the board with a diving interception in his NFL debut, another young member of the San Francisco 49ers made an impact in Week 18 against the Los Angeles Rams.
The San Francisco 49ers will see another rookie make his debut against the Arizona Cardinals, with fifth-round rookie defensive end Robert Beal Jr. active for the first time.
The 49ers just added another edge rusher to their 53-man roster. Rookie defensive end Robert Beal Jr. has been activated from the Injured Reserve list today while veteran safety and special teamer George Odum has been placed on I.R.