While the 49ers had high hopes for this season, their struggles may position them for a valuable draft pick.
After snapping a losing streak with a win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday, San Francisco stands at 6-7 for the season. This record is far from the team’s expectations following last year’s Super Bowl run. Once considered a top NFC contender, the 49ers are now more likely to end up with a pick in the top half of the upcoming draft than a playoff berth—unless their fortunes change dramatically in the final stretch of the season.
Although disappointing, this situation could allow the team to add significant talent. According to Bleacher Report‘s scouting department, San Francisco is projected to select Marshall edge rusher Mike Green in the 2025 NFL Draft.
“2025 NFL Draft: Edge Mike Green, Marshall,” Bleacher Report wrote. “Leonard Floyd is only signed through 2025 and could become a cap casualty this offseason, saving the 49ers nearly $8 million as a post-June 1 cut, according to Over The Cap. Even if Floyd stays, he’ll be 33 at the start of next season, so the team could benefit from a younger edge rusher to complement Nick Bosa.
“Green might remind 49ers GM John Lynch of the pass-rusher he’d be replacing. The Marshall standout has a wiry frame and will need to bulk up to hold the edge at the NFL level, but he’s incredibly quick and boasts a variety of pass-rush moves.
These traits helped him earn Sun Belt Player of the Year honors, racking up 17 sacks this season. Green is also physical at the point of attack and has the potential to develop into an every-down player with time in an NFL weight program.”
Green has been a force for Marshall, recording 17 sacks, 23 tackles for loss, and 84 total tackles across 13 games this season. Pairing him with Nick Bosa could create a formidable pass-rushing duo that would wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
