49ers Double Down on Offensive Line in New 2026 Mock Draft

As the San Francisco 49ers look ahead to the 2026 NFL season, they find themselves in a strong position with some key building blocks on offense. However, one area in need of immediate improvement remains the offensive line. While left tackle Trent Williams and center Jake Brendel are solidified for 2026, both positions will need long-term solutions as the team looks to continue its Super Bowl aspirations.

In a recent two-round mock draft for 2026, ESPN’s Mike Miller has the 49ers addressing this issue head-on by selecting two offensive linemen with their first two picks. The moves would ensure that the team is not only preparing for the future but also addressing the need for depth and talent along the offensive front.

First Round Pick: Caleb Lomu – Offensive Tackle from Utah

Miller has the 49ers selecting Caleb Lomu, an offensive tackle from Utah, with their first-round pick at No. 27 overall. The choice comes with a critical question for the team: Is this the year the 49ers draft a successor for Trent Williams at left tackle? At 38 years old, Williams is entering the twilight years of his illustrious career, and the possibility of retirement looms large over the team. With this in mind, drafting Lomu would give the 49ers a strong, talented player to eventually take over the crucial left tackle spot.

Lomu, who has started the past two seasons at left tackle for Utah, has proven his worth by not allowing a sack since 2024 and giving up only three in his entire career. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 308 pounds, Lomu is an excellent fit for the 49ers’ outside zone scheme, known for its emphasis on agility and movement. His ability to easily move and his reactive agility would allow him to thrive in a system that demands quickness and flexibility from its offensive line. Additionally, Lomu has room to grow physically, which would enable him to continue developing into a stronger, more dominant player at the NFL level.

Miller notes that Lomu’s selection would be a smart move to prepare for Williams’ potential departure, securing the future at a position that has been a key part of the 49ers’ offensive success.

Second Round Pick: Logan Jones – Center from Iowa

The 49ers’ second pick in this mock draft is Logan Jones, a center from Iowa, selected with the No. 58 overall pick. While Jake Brendel is set to start at center for the 49ers in 2026, Miller highlights that the team needs to fill several gaps on the offensive line to remain competitive at a Super Bowl level. With Brendel’s future beyond 2026 uncertain, adding Jones could offer the team an immediate backup and long-term solution at the position.

Jones is known for his agility and ability to thrive in a zone-blocking scheme, which makes him an ideal fit for Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system. Miller suggests that Jones could come in and immediately compete for a starting job, whether as a potential replacement for Brendel or as depth for the future.

Why the 49ers Are Focused on Offensive Line

This offensive line-focused draft strategy aligns with the 49ers’ current needs and future aspirations. The team has been one of the top contenders in the NFC, but in order to keep pace with elite teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, improving their offensive line is crucial. Protecting the quarterback and establishing a powerful running game are key elements of Shanahan’s scheme, and a stronger, younger offensive line would provide the 49ers with more flexibility and dominance on offense.

The addition of both Lomu and Jones would give the team crucial depth in the offensive trenches, preparing them for the future while still competing for a championship. However, there are some potential challenges to this approach. Brendel has been solid at center, and with Shanahan’s recent praise for his performance, it’s likely the team will stick with him as the starter for the time being. The idea of investing both first-round picks on offensive linemen who might not start immediately could be tough for fans and players to accept, especially with an aging roster that is aiming for immediate success.

A Long-Term Investment for Success

While the decision to draft two offensive linemen might seem like a focus on the future, the 49ers are positioned to make a deep playoff run in 2026. By adding Lomu and Jones, the team would ensure their offensive line is well-equipped to protect the franchise quarterback and open up lanes for the explosive Christian McCaffrey in the backfield. The 49ers have built a Super Bowl-caliber roster, and these draft picks could serve as key building blocks for the long-term success of the team.

With Trent Williams‘ eventual retirement and the unknowns surrounding other positions, the 49ers’ front office understands the importance of securing the offensive line now, ensuring the team remains a contender for years to come. Whether or not these rookies see immediate playing time in 2026, their development could prove crucial as the 49ers continue to chase their elusive Super Bowl title.