The San Francisco 49ers understand the task at hand this offseason. After missing out in the postseason during the 2024 season, the 49ers must use the NFL Draft as a major outlet to improve the roster.
They didn't do much in free agency, so the NFL Draft gives them the opportunity to improve their team. The 49ers own the 11th pick in the first round and will get a chance to add a high-quality player to the team.
The 49ers could use some help along the offensive line and may look to add more to that unit next week. Despite Trent Williams being signed through the 2026 season, he could be someone who could be expendable after the NFL Draft.
Last September, he signed a three-year, $82.66 million extension, including $48 million guaranteed. With a new deal under his belt, Williams continued to play at a high level. According to PFF, he posted an 85.6 overall grade (6th among 141 eligible tackles), an 84.5 pass-blocking grade (9th among 141 eligible tackles), and an 81.4 run-blocking grade (8th among 141 eligible tackles).
He's still an anchor that can hold down the left tackle spot, but he will be turning 37 years old this summer. The 49ers could have the opportunity to land a franchise tackle in the first round.
Josh Simmons out of Ohio State, Kelvin Banks Jr. out of Texas, and Armand Membou out of Missouri are some of the top tackle prospects that could be available when the 49ers get on the clock at No. 11. All of these guys have the skill set to be able to step in and contribute on Day 1.
If the 49ers decide to go down that route and find a cheaper option at tackle, that could make Williams dispensable. The odds of that are extremely low, but you never know what could happen. With a Brock Purdy extension on the horizon, the idea of looking for more cap space and getting younger at a key position makes a ton of sense.
Any of the three players named above could be high-impact players in 2025. Earlier this offseason, the Commanders sent a 2025 third- and seventh-round picks, plus 2026 second- and fourth-round selections to the Houston Texans in exchange for Laremy Tunsil.
Even if the 49ers don't get that same package since Williams is older, they could still land a massive deal in return for him. Drafting a player like Membou, Banks Jr., or Simmons while getting future draft capital could be a pathway for the 49ers.