With draft season gaining momentum, the San Francisco 49ers are increasingly being linked to offensive line help, and one name continues to surface: Caleb Lomu. ESPN insider Peter Schrager, known for releasing only two mock drafts each year, has projected the Utah tackle to land in San Francisco at No. 27 overall.
Schrager’s projections are rooted in conversations with league sources and front-office insight rather than pure speculation, offering a window into how teams might actually be thinking. In this case, the logic ties directly to the uncertainty surrounding Trent Williams. Contract discussions remain unresolved, and even if a deal is reached, Williams is set to turn 38 next season.
That context makes Lomu a logical long-term investment. The 6-foot-6, 313-pound lineman has started the past two seasons at left tackle for Utah and did not allow a single sack in 2025.
San Francisco’s roster is built to contend now, but this projection reflects a shift toward sustainability. Adding a young tackle would not only provide insurance but also create a succession plan at one of the most critical positions on the field.
Trade-up buzz adds another layer to 49ers draft strategy
While reinforcing the offensive line remains one path, another scenario gaining attention involves an aggressive move for a wide receiver. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell introduced that idea in his “All-Trades Mock Draft,” where he reshuffled every first-round selection.
In that projection, San Francisco moves from No. 27 to No. 23 by sending two fourth-round picks, No. 127 and No. 133, to the Philadelphia Eagles. The motivation is clear.
“In this scenario, they're trying to jump teams that are thinking about edge talents and wide receivers,” Barnwell writes. “The Eagles aren't in the market for a wideout (yet), but the Browns, Bears and Bills could all at least look toward options at wide receiver.”
The urgency at the receiver stems from recent roster changes. Deebo Samuel Sr. was traded last offseason, and Brandon Aiyuk missed the entire 2025 season and is not expected to remain long-term. Even after adding veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, the team may still seek a younger option.
Barnwell points to Denzel Boston as a potential target, noting he could develop into a reliable YAC contributor and eventually fill a larger role on the outside. Meanwhile, other mock drafts suggest Boston may not last long, with projections placing him late in the first round. Holding four fourth-round selections gives the 49ers flexibility to maneuver.
More 49ers news: