Should the San Francisco 49ers Go “Pass-Rush Maxxing” This Offseason? A Deep Dive Into Draft Targets, QB Decisions, and Rising Mock Draft Momentum
The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2026 offseason with several major questions surrounding their roster construction, draft priorities, and long-term competitive strategy. With a talented core still capable of contending for a Super Bowl, the front office must decide whether this is the year to aggressively reinforce the pass rush — a potential “passrushmaxxing” approach that analysts say could reshape the team’s defensive ceiling.
The topic gained momentum after a viral preseason interaction between star tight end George Kittle and Maxx Crosby, sparking conversations about what elite edge talent can do for a team at critical playoff moments. For a franchise defined by its defensive identity under Kyle Shanahan’s tenure, returning to a dominant pass-rushing formula may be the most important offseason priority.
Daniel Jeremiah Identifies Ideal Pass Rushers and Speed Receivers for the 49ers
On a recent segment, NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah highlighted several EDGE prospects who perfectly match San Francisco’s archetype: long, powerful rushers who can set the edge and consistently collapse pockets.
Jeremiah singled out Zion Young, the Missouri defensive end listed at 6-foot-5¼ and 262 pounds, describing him as a “big, physical rusher with the exact profile the 49ers look for.” Clemson’s T.J. Parker, nearly 6-foot-4 and 263 pounds, was also mentioned as a heavy, power-first edge defender capable of winning with strength and leverage — traits the 49ers covet in their wide-9 front.
Switching to receiver targets, Jeremiah emphasized speed. Texas A&M standout KC Concepcion brings “elite, elite speed” and electric return ability, including multiple punt return touchdowns. Another intriguing name is Washington’s Denzel Boston, whose combination of size (6-foot-3, near 210 pounds), explosiveness, and expected mid-4.4 speed makes him a versatile downfield threat. Jeremiah compared Boston to Courtland Sutton, citing his red-zone value and ability to win above the rim.
For a 49ers offense historically built on timing and yards-after-catch ability, adding a true vertical burner could unlock new schematic layers — especially if paired with Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk.
Hutchinson Releases the First Top-50 Big Board of the Draft Cycle
Draft analyst Hutchinson also released a preliminary Top-50 board, calling it a foundational reference point before measurement data and combine performances alter rankings. While he offered minimal written commentary, he emphasized that early boards often shift dramatically once prospects test, interview, and go through official evaluations.
Still, having an early benchmark helps identify how many high-value EDGE and WR prospects may realistically fall into San Francisco’s range, especially if the team picks late in the first round once again.
Mac Jones: Staying in San Francisco… or Becoming a Trade Candidate?
Perhaps the most surprising storyline involves quarterback Mac Jones, whose future with the team remains a subject of speculation as the NFL Combine approaches. Although team officials publicly state they intend to keep Jones, multiple signs suggest the quarterback market could shift quickly.
Reporter Matt Dickinson described Jones’ rocky tenure in New England under Bill Belichick as a “terrible fit,” noting that Jones looked rejuvenated after joining the 49ers in 2025. Jones signed a two-year,
$7 million deal — with just $4.75 million guaranteed — because he believed Kyle Shanahan’s system offered the best chance to resurrect his career.
Jones performed admirably as a high-value backup last season, proving crucial during stretches when the 49ers needed stability. With a 2026 cap hit of just $3.1 million, his contract makes him both a bargain and a potential trade asset. The question now: Will quarterback-needy teams attempt to lure him away with late-round compensation?
San Francisco insists he is staying — but front offices rarely rule out moves entirely, especially before the Combine, where trade conversations typically accelerate.
49ers Mock Draft Buzz: Tight End Sadiq Rising Rapidly
In multiple mock drafts, including those by Davis, Jeremiah, and Lance Zierlein, the 49ers are projected to select tight end Sadiq, a 6-foot-3, 245-pound weapon viewed as the first tight end off the board. Analysts believe Sadiq is gaining momentum as a potential perfect fit for Kyle Shanahan’s offense, thanks to his blend of blocking capability, route fluidity, and red-zone upside.
With George Kittle aging and dealing with increasing wear-and-tear, a long-term TE2 — and future TE1 — makes sense for sustaining offensive versatility. Shanahan’s system relies heavily on multiple-tight-end looks, and Sadiq’s frame, athletic profile, and versatility match the mold of previous 49ers developmental projects.
Should the 49ers Go All-In on Pass-Rush Reinforcements?
Given the current roster landscape, the question becomes whether San Francisco should aggressively stack edge defenders this offseason — essentially “passrushmaxxing.”
The logic is simple:
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Elite pass rush dictates playoff outcomes.
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Nick Bosa needs a high-end running mate.
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Rotational depth became a glaring issue late last season.
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The NFC now features multiple star quarterbacks requiring constant pressure.
With several EDGE prospects fitting the 49ers’ archetype and multiple affordable veteran free agents available, pass-rush investment may offer the highest upside-to-cost ratio of any offseason strategy.
Where the 49ers Stand Entering the Combine
As the NFL Scouting Combine approaches, the 49ers have three interconnected priorities:
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Assess pass-rush talent early and identify whether a Round 1 EDGE is realistic.
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Evaluate wide receiver depth, especially if a burner like Concepcion or a power athlete like Boston falls unexpectedly.
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Monitor quarterback trade chatter around Mac Jones to gauge whether teams are calling.
The 49ers remain one of the league’s deepest and most balanced contenders. But championship windows do not stay open forever, and with multiple NFC rivals aggressively retooling, this may be the offseason where San Francisco must pivot from incremental adjustments to bold, ceiling-raising personnel moves.
Whether that means drafting a power EDGE like Zion Young, a speed threat like KC Concepcion, a future-proof tight end like Sadiq, or navigating the Mac Jones situation with precision, the choices made over the next two months will shape the franchise’s path toward another Super Bowl run.
One thing is clear: If the 49ers choose to “passrushmaxx,” the rest of the NFC will feel it immediately
