JUST IN: Latest Three-Round Mock Draft Sees 49ers Shower Robert Saleh with Key Additions, Including a ‘Seamless Fit’ for His Defense
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams across the league are strategizing on how to best position themselves for the upcoming season, and the San Francisco 49ers are no exception. A recently released three-round mock draft has revealed that the 49ers are making bold moves to bolster their roster, with a particular focus on providing valuable reinforcements to Robert Saleh’s defense. The New York Jets’ head coach, who previously served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator, is now receiving a considerable amount of attention from his former team, which is primed to shower him with key additions in this year’s draft.
Robert Saleh’s Influence on the 49ers’ Strategy
Robert Saleh’s defense is known for its high intensity, fast-paced, and aggressive approach. During his time in San Francisco, he helped turn the 49ers’ defense into one of the most feared in the league. His focus on versatile, high-motor athletes who can play multiple positions is evident in the draft selections that are expected to be made. Even though Saleh now leads the Jets, his impact on the 49ers’ draft strategy remains clear. The 49ers seem intent on bringing in players who fit his defensive philosophy — particularly those who excel in disrupting the opposing offense, creating turnovers, and applying relentless pressure.
The 49ers’ Mock Draft Strategy
In this latest mock draft, which spans the first three rounds, the 49ers are expected to make several key moves to shore up their defense. While their offense has been effective in recent seasons, it’s clear that they are looking to keep pace with the ever-evolving NFL offenses. A defense that can shut down opponents, pressure the quarterback, and force turnovers will be essential to their future success, and the 49ers are looking to the draft to make those improvements.
The first round pick is expected to be a versatile defensive player who can immediately step in and make an impact. The mock draft suggests that the 49ers could target a dynamic pass rusher, someone who can contribute to a defense that’s already loaded with talent. A top-tier edge rusher would give the 49ers even more firepower in their front seven, complementing the likes of Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead.
However, it’s not just about adding talent to the defensive line. The 49ers could also use their first-round pick to address the secondary, adding a defensive back who can lock down opposing receivers and create opportunities for interceptions. A cornerback or safety who excels in man-to-man coverage would be an ideal fit, especially with Saleh’s preference for a defense that can adapt to any situation.
A ‘Seamless Fit’ for Saleh’s Defense
The standout pick in this mock draft is one that analysts are calling a “seamless fit” for Robert Saleh’s defense. This player, who could be a linebacker or a versatile defender capable of moving around the field, brings the athleticism and IQ needed to thrive in Saleh’s system. In Saleh’s defense, linebackers are expected to cover a lot of ground — from rushing the passer to dropping back in coverage to stopping the run. The ideal pick would be someone who can seamlessly transition between roles and contribute to all phases of the defense.
Analysts believe this particular player would immediately slot into the 49ers’ lineup and could make an immediate impact. Saleh has always favored players who are highly versatile and capable of being molded into key pieces of his defensive system, and this pick would align perfectly with that philosophy. The 49ers’ defensive coordinator, Steve Wilks, who also values versatility, would have the freedom to deploy this player in various ways to maximize his potential.
Other Key Picks and Potential Trades
While the first round is critical for the 49ers, the subsequent rounds provide opportunities to further build on their defensive depth. In the second and third rounds of the mock draft, the 49ers are expected to focus on acquiring more defensive talent, potentially adding another pass rusher, a linebacker, or a cornerback who can play in the slot.
Additionally, the 49ers could look to trade up or down in the draft to either secure a particular player or stockpile more picks for future seasons. Their draft capital in 2025 is flexible, and with the current roster already filled with elite talent in several positions, San Francisco has the luxury of focusing on depth and versatility. This could lead to some trade activity if they spot an opportunity to grab a player who may have fallen lower in the draft than expected.
The Bigger Picture: The 49ers’ Defensive Outlook
The 49ers are entering the 2025 season with one of the most formidable defenses in the league, but they are not resting on their laurels. The goal is not just to maintain their high level of play but to continuously improve, staying one step ahead of the opposition. The mock draft reflects a continued commitment to defensive excellence — with the draft picks reinforcing the need for more explosive, adaptable, and high-IQ players who can thrive in the fast-moving, unpredictable world of NFL defense.
For Robert Saleh, the 49ers’ focus on defensive talent will feel like a gift, as he builds his own defense with the New York Jets. While he no longer coaches in San Francisco, the foundation he helped build will continue to support his vision for defensive football. For the 49ers, this draft represents an opportunity to extend their dominance on defense and set themselves up for another championship push in the coming years.
Conclusion
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, the San Francisco 49ers’ strategy is becoming clearer. The team is making moves to bolster its defense, with several key picks lined up in the first three rounds. The expected additions are set to provide Robert Saleh with the types of players who thrive in his system — versatile, high-energy, and disruptive. Whether it’s through a game-changing edge rusher or a versatile linebacker, the 49ers are laying the groundwork for continued success on defense, and these picks are expected to pay off in the upcoming seasons. The 49ers’ commitment to supporting Saleh’s vision, even from afar, underscores just how important defense will continue to be for the team’s long-term goals.
