San Francisco 49ers' Draft Picks Breakdown
Evaluating the 2022 NFL Draft Selections of the San Francisco 49ers
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the 49ers went all-out on defensive picks, targetting key areas that needed reinforcement. Here's a lowdown on their new recruits:
- Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia (1st Round, 11th overall) Coach Kyle Shanahan managed to snag a promising edge rusher to complement Nick Bosa. Known for his speed and pass-rushing prowess, Williams should fit like a glove in the 49ers' defensive front.
Expection: Williams is expected to take on a significant role, either starting or rotating, since he's all about putting pressure on the quarterback.
- Alfred Collins, DT, Texas (2nd Round, 43rd overall) Collins steps in as a filler for the defensive tackle positions vacated by Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins. With his size and strength, Collins should shore up the interior defensive line.
Expection: Collins might contest for a starting spot thanks to his athleticism, aiming to strengthen the team's run defense.
- Nick Martin, LB, Washington (3rd Round, 75th overall) Martin joins the team as a linebacker, joining the post-offseason exodus of key players like Azeez Al-Shaair and Dre Greenlaw. Martin's agility and coverage skills are assets that could make a difference.
Expection: Martin may begin as a backup, learning the ropes from veteran players before getting more defend snaps. His special teams contribution could prove essential from day one.
- Jordan Watkins, WR, Tennessee (4th Round, 138th overall) Watkins, with WR1 potential, could plug either a wide receiver slot or serve as a WR2 for the 49ers' offense. His college stint was cut short by top talents in the college gridiron.
Expection: Watkins could emerge as a reliable target for the 49ers' QB, given his promise and coach Kyle Shanahan's knack for nurturing talent.
The 49ers' draft strategy revolves around beefing up their defensive line and improving their linebacker corps. The hope is that these new additions will help turn things around after a slightly underwhelming season.
- With Jordan Watkins' WR1 potential, he might be the underrated addition to the 49ers offense, playing either as a wide receiver slot or a WR2.
- Despite being selected in the 4th round, Watkins' college performances were hindered by top-class competition, indicating he could be a hidden gem for the 49ers.
- Linebacker Nick Martin, drafted in the 3rd round, could be an agile, underestimated asset to the 49ers' defense, contributing effectively to both regular defense and special teams.
- The 49ers' WR1 pick, Jordan Watkins, has the potential to showcase his skills on the sideline, under the guidance of Coach Kyle Shanahan, who is renowned for nurturing talent in American football.
- Martin, the new linebacker, stands a chance to prove worthy of the 49ers' faith, showcasing his agility and coverage skills to outshine his fellow linebackers in football games.
