49ers set to stick with key draft philosophies that have defined Shanahan-Lynch era

Mar 30, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch during the 2026 NFL Annual League Meeting at the Arizona Biltmore. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J.

Rebilas-Imagn Images Since Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch assumed their roles as head coach and general manager of the 49ers, two positions have dominated their thoughts when it comes to the draft, defensive line and wide receiver. A look at the 49ers’ draft history since 2017 is telling. The 49ers have only twice used a first-round pick on a position other than defensive line or wideout.

The ninth overall pick was spent on right tackle Mike McGlinchey in 2018, and the third overall selection into which the 49ers traded up was infamously used on quarterback Trey Lance in 2021. And it once again appears that one of those two areas will be the focus if the 49ers eschew the opportunity to trade down and stay at pick 27 in the first round. With the 49ers coming to an agreement with Trent Williams that ensures he will be with the team for the next two seasons, San Francisco is less likely to be inclined to select an offensive lineman in the first round, despite the obvious need for the Niners to eventually find an heir apparent for the 37-year-old.

Asked about a replacement plan for Williams in his pre-draft press conference, Lynch provided an answer that indicated San Francisco will likely not pick his successor in this year’s draft. “We did a two-year deal with Trent with great confidence that Trent’s going to be here for a couple years. The way he takes care of himself, where his heart’s at.