Kurtenbach: A 7-round 49ers mock draft with two weeks to go

In his latest 7-round mock draft, ESPN's Nick Wagoner of the San Francisco Chronicle, known as Kurtenbach in his mock drafts, has the San Francisco 49ers focusing heavily on addressing their need at offensive tackle in the first three rounds. With just two weeks remaining until the NFL Draft, let's delve deeper into Kurtenbach's mock draft and explore some factual context surrounding the team's pursuit of offensive line talent.

1. Round 1 (Pick 3): Ikem Ekwonu, North Carolina State

Kurtenbach has the 49ers selecting Ikem Ekwonu, a versatile offensive lineman from North Carolina State, with their first pick in the draft. Ekwonu is widely regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in this year's class. He started at left guard in his freshman year before moving to right tackle in his final two seasons. His versatility and athleticism make him an attractive option for the 49ers, who have been searching for a long-term solution at left tackle since Joe Staley's retirement in 2020.

2. Round 2 (Pick 38): Bernhard Raimann, Central Michigan

In the second round, Kurtenbach has the 49ers selecting Bernhard Raimann, an offensive tackle from Central Michigan. Raimann is a highly-regarded European prospect who started his college career as a tight end before transitioning to offensive line in his sophomore year. He has impressive size (6'6" and 305 lbs) and athleticism, which has caught the attention of NFL scouts. The 49ers could potentially use Raimann as depth at offensive tackle or even as a developmental project at guard.

3. Round 3 (Pick 66): Logan Bruss, Wisconsin

In the third round, Kurtenbach has the 49ers selecting Logan Bruss, an offensive guard from Wisconsin. Bruss is a three-year starter at Wisconsin and has experience playing both guard positions. He is known for his strength, intelligence, and versatility. The 49ers could potentially use Bruss as depth at guard or even as a potential replacement for Laken Tomlinson if they decide not to re-sign him after this season.

Trade Scenario:

Kurtenbach also mentions that the 49ers could be involved in a big trade to move up in the draft and secure an elite offensive tackle prospect. One potential target could be Alabama's Evan Neal, who is widely regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in this year's class. The New York Giants currently hold the third overall pick, and it's possible that they could be willing to trade down if they decide to address their quarterback needs earlier in the draft. The 49ers could offer a package including their first-round pick (third overall) and additional picks to move up and secure Neal's services. However, this is just speculation at this point, and any potential trade would depend on the asking price from the Giants and the 49ers' willingness to pay it.

In summary, Kurtenbach's mock draft has the San Francisco 49ers addressing their need at offensive tackle in the first three rounds, potentially through a combination of draft picks and a potential trade. The team is expected to select Ikem Ekwonu in the first round, Bernhard Raimann in the second round, and Logan Bruss in the third round. Additionally, there is speculation that the team could be involved in a trade to move up in the draft and secure an elite offensive tackle prospect like Evan Neal.

Sources:

- Kurtenbach, N. (2022). 49ers Mock Draft: Three offensive linemen in first three rounds. ESPN. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/3361113/san-francisco-49ers-mock-draft-three-offensive-linemen-first-three-rounds

- NFL Draft Scout (2022). Ikem Ekwonu. Retrieved from https://www.nfldraftscout.com/players/1061152/Ikem-Ekwonu/

- NFL Draft Scout (2022). Bernhard Raimann. Retrieved from https://www.nfldraftscout.com/players/1088