Alec Elijah of Pro Football and Sports Network (PFSN) released a three-round 2026 NFL mock draft projecting the San Francisco 49ers to address multiple roster needs—though notably not the offensive or defensive lines, two areas widely viewed as priorities. Still, Elijah has head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch using their first-round pick on a position of need.
With the No. 27 overall selection, Elijah projects the 49ers to draft Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch.
“Zachariah Branch may not yet be generating tons of first-round buzz, but the Georgia receiver has the film to change that quickly,” Elijah wrote. “His 2025 production earned him the third-highest PFSN WR Impact grade in the nation at 85.6, highlighting his ability to consistently create separation, make contested catches, and threaten defenses downfield.”
The 49ers have seemingly closed the door on wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. Jauan Jennings is scheduled to hit free agency, while Ricky Pearsall struggled with injuries during his second NFL season.
Elijah believes that Branch could flourish in the 49ers’ offense, thanks to its innovative offensive play-caller.
“With the right system and play-caller like Kyle Shanahan, Branch can become a dynamic offensive focal point, racking up yards and creating matchup nightmares for opposing defenses,” Elijah wrote.
“A true Swiss army knife, Branch thrives when used creatively. His quickness, vision, and speed make him a dangerous weapon on designed touches, jet sweeps, and screen passes, and he has the potential to contribute immediately as a returner.”
In the second round, Elijah has the 49ers shifting their focus to defense by selecting Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr.
“For the 49ers, Anthony Hill Jr. projects as a potential three-down contributor, someone who can energize the defense with sideline-to-sideline range, disrupt both run and pass, and serve as a physical, turnover-generating centerpiece in the front seven,” Elijah wrote.
Elijah rounds out San Francisco’s first three selections by projecting the team to return to offense in the third round, selecting Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price.
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to begin on Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh.