The San Francisco 49ers did not make a selection during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The team traded down from its original 27th overall pick in two separate transactions, ultimately acquiring the 33rd overall pick, which will be the first selection of the second round.
Trade Details
The 49ers first traded the 27th overall pick to the Miami Dolphins for the 30th overall pick. They subsequently traded the 30th overall pick to the New York Jets in exchange for the 33rd overall pick.
The Jets used the 30th pick to select wide receiver Omar Cooper, Jr.
General Manager John Lynch stated that groundwork for a potential trade back began the previous week, including a deal with Miami. The trade with the Jets was not finalized earlier, but both sides had maintained contact.
Team Rationale
Head Coach Kyle Shanahan explained that when the players the 49ers prioritized at the 27th pick were no longer available, the team decided to move back to the 30th pick, and then to the 33rd pick. Shanahan described the outcome as successful because the team acquired additional draft picks while selecting players they would have taken at the 30th pick.
"Holding the 33rd pick allows the organization to 'reconvene, reset our board, reset our thoughts,' and described it as a 'coveted pick.'" — John Lynch
Lynch commented on the team's position, stating that holding the 33rd pick allows the organization to "reconvene, reset our board, reset our thoughts," and described it as a "coveted pick." Lynch added that the team "have a good idea of where we're going" with the selection.
Player Interest
The 49ers were interested in receiver KC Concepcion, according to Lynch. Lynch stated: "We liked KC a lot. Tremendous young man. He has a great ability with the ball in his hands."
Lynch said that first-round grades ran out "a couple picks before we picked." Shanahan added that some players they expected to be available were selected, which made them feel confident about the choices available at No. 33.
Cornerback was not addressed by the 49ers in the first round. Safety Dillon Thieneman, EDGE Malachi Lawrence, and offensive tackle Max Iheanachor were selected in the early 20s and may have been targets.
Current Draft Position
The 49ers currently hold three selections on Day 2 of the draft:
- No. 33
- No. 58
- No. 90
Potential Day 2 Targets
Multiple mock drafts and analyses have identified potential prospects for the 49ers at their upcoming selections:
- Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (S, Toledo): A versatile defensive back who could contribute immediately. Analysts note he is a top-30 player on some boards but has limitations in man coverage.
- Caleb Tiernan (OT, Northwestern): (6'8", 323 lbs) Has started 44 games, primarily at left tackle. Some analysts project he may move to guard due to shorter arm length.
- R Mason Thomas (EDGE, Oklahoma): An edge rusher who could address defensive needs.
- Denzel Boston (WR, Washington): A wide receiver option.
- Chris Bell (WR, Louisville): A larger, physical receiver who could fill a boundary role.
- Kaimon Jacas (EDGE, Houston): Another potential edge rusher.
- Zion Young (EDGE, Missouri): Could strengthen run defense and develop pass-rushing skills.
- Antonio Williams (WR, Clemson): A slot receiver with consistent hands but listed at under 190 lbs.
- Germie Bernard (WR, Alabama): An alternative at wide receiver.
- Dani Dennis-Sutton (EDGE, Penn State): Considered a good value at pick 90.