CBS Sports analyst Ryan Wilson released his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, projecting the San Francisco 49ers to address a major offensive need in the first round. With Brandon Aiyuk expected to depart, Jauan Jennings headed for free agency, and Ricky Pearsall coming off an injury-marred second NFL season, Wilson has the 49ers targeting a new playmaker for quarterback Brock Purdy.
At No. 27 overall, Wilson projects head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch to select Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston.
“A big, physical WR with a massive catch radius, contested-catch ability, and the speed to separate quickly and hit top-end velocity in 2-3 steps,” Wilson wrote. “Boston is an effective route runner at all three levels, will run through arm tackles in space, and can outmuscle defenders in the red zone.”
Boston, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound target, checks several boxes for a 49ers offense that could be searching for a true outside presence. Wilson has him coming off the board as the fourth wide receiver selected in the draft. Boston is coming off his most productive collegiate season in 2025, hauling in 62 passes for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Over four seasons with the Huskies, Boston totaled 132 receptions for 1,781 yards and 20 touchdowns, with most of that production coming over the past two years (125 receptions for 715 yards and 20 touchdowns).
“While primarily an outside threat, his size, strength, and hands make him a potential matchup problem in the slot, too. Added bonus: he’s a legit threat as a punt returner.”
If the 49ers don’t add a proven playmaker at wide receiver in free agency, targeting a big-bodied pass catcher like Boston early in the 2026 NFL Draft could become a priority.