49ers draft: Is there a player worth trading up for?
Not just in the 1st round, but should the 49ers consider trading up this year?
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 27: Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson answers questions from the media during the NFL Scouting Combine on February 27, 2026 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images A popular talking point, for most teams, is to trade down in the NFL draft and accumulate picks. After all, the more swings you have, the more likely it is that you hit on a prospect.
The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2026 NFL Draft with picks in the first and second rounds, as well as four fourth-round picks. The Niners don’t have a third-round pick after they upped their original offer to land a quality starting 3-technique. We’re seeing players mocked in the first round that would be selected in the 50s and 60s next year.
When a running back, linebacker, and safety are recognized as the best players in the draft, you’re not going to see conjecture about trades. That’s been the case during this draft cycle. You can identify contributors through the third round of this draft.
Contributors≠Starters. If you’re going to move draft assets, it’s not for somebody who can pitch in here and there. You’re making a trade for an impact player.