As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Daniel Jeremiah has provided valuable insights into how the San Francisco 49ers might address two critical offseason needs: enhancing their pass rush and bolstering their wide receiver corps.
During his annual pre-Combine conference call, Jeremiah discussed potential prospects that could be available when the 49ers select at No. 27 overall. With the team”s defensive line requiring reinforcements, Jeremiah pointed out the need following a disappointing season where the team managed only 20 sacks, the lowest in the NFL. The absence of defensive end Nick Bosa, who suffered an ACL injury for a significant portion of the year, greatly impacted the team”s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
If the 49ers aim to secure a physical edge rusher in the first round, Jeremiah highlighted two candidates who fit the profile. “If you”re looking for that big, physical rusher that kind of fits those specs, to me Zion Young, he”s 6-5 and a quarter, 262 pounds,” Jeremiah explained. He also mentioned T.J. Parker from Clemson, who, while slightly smaller, stands almost 6-4 and weighs 263 pounds. Both players are noted for their ability to set the edge and apply significant pressure off the line.
In addition to addressing the defensive line, wide receiver is another position of interest for the 49ers. The team appears to be parting ways with disgruntled receiver Brandon Aiyuk, indicating he may have played his last game with the franchise. Moreover, wideouts Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, and Skyy Moore are set to enter free agency, while Ricky Pearsall dealt with injuries that hampered his growth last season.
Jeremiah noted that if the 49ers prioritize speed and explosiveness in their receiver selection, they will have numerous options. “In terms of the receivers, looking for somebody who can really, really run, there”s going to be a lot of options there,” he stated. He specifically mentioned KC Concepcion from Texas A&M, praising his elite speed and ability to make big plays, despite some concerns about his drop rate last season.
Concepcion”s ability to stretch the field would bring a dynamic element to head coach Kyle Shanahan“s offensive scheme, although his ball security may raise some flags during evaluations.
Another notable name linked to the 49ers is Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston, who some mock drafts suggest could be available at No. 27. However, Jeremiah expressed skepticism about Boston still being on the board at that point. “I think Denzel Boston”s probably gone by then, but he”s going to give you the combination of both, because he”s going to be 6-3, close to 210 pounds, and I bet he runs in the 4.4s, mid-4.4s at that size,” he remarked. Jeremiah likened Boston”s potential impact to that of Courtland Sutton, emphasizing his ability to make plays in the red zone and adjust during games.
As the draft nears, the 49ers have critical decisions to make that could shape their future success on the field.
