Kudos to anyone who compiles a seven-round mock draft for the entire league. It’s an extensive endeavor, and draft analyst Matt Miller recently took on this challenge in a feature for ESPN. He projected 257 selections, with the San Francisco 49ers holding 10.
Miller provided explanations for each pick in the first three rounds and shared his favorite selection for the remainder of the draft.
So, who does Miller envision joining the 49ers’ newest rookie class? Let’s delve into his ideal scenario for the Bay Area team in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Round 1, Pick 31 Overall
Jordan Morgan, G/OT, Arizona
Morgan is a popular choice for the 49ers in mock drafts, and Miller believes the offensive lineman is a perfect fit. With the team concentrating on defense during free agency, San Francisco is anticipated to address its offensive line issues in the draft.
“The 49ers were active in free agency, but they didn’t do much regarding the offensive line, which struggled throughout the postseason,” Miller wrote. “To me, that signals that the front office sees the draft class as a good opportunity to build there. Morgan played left tackle at Arizona, but he is seen by scouts as a potential guard at the next level. He has 37 games of experience and is a great mover in space. Morgan is a plug-and-play fit in the 49ers’ scheme.”
Round 2, Pick 63
Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan
After bolstering its defensive edges with Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos in free agency, San Francisco looks to fortify the interior with its next pick.
“Arik Armstead was released in a salary cap-saving move, and while the 49ers did add Maliek Collins and Jordan Elliott, a true 3-technique rusher should be on the draft wish list behind offensive line help,” Miller wrote. “Jenkins is 6-3 and 299 pounds, and he ran a 4.91-second 40, showing his speed. But he is also one of the strongest defensive tackles in the class.”
Round 3, Pick 94
Zak Zinter, G, Michigan
The 49ers continue shoring up their offensive line by addressing the interior.
“Zinter has missed the pre-draft process with a leg injury, but his power in the run game and movement traits are exactly what the 49ers are lacking at right guard,” Miller wrote.
Miller’s selections for the 49ers’ remaining seven picks are as follows. He has the team adding four players for the offensive side of the ball and three to the defense.
Round 4, Pick 124
Elijah Jones, CB, Boston College
Round 4, Pick 132
Curtis Jacobs, LB, Penn State
Round 4, Pick 135
Ben Sinnott, TE, Kansas State
Round 5, Pick 176
Malik Mustapha, S, Wake Forest
Round 6, Pick 211
Anthony Gould, WR, Oregon State
Round 6, Pick 215
Jase McClellan, RB, Alabama
Round 7, Pick 251
Nick Gargiulo, C, South Carolina