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 of the 2023 NFL Draft. With just two weeks remaining before the draft, let's delve deeper into Kurtenbach's mock draft and explore some factual content regarding the team's pursuit of top offensive tackle prospects.

1. Round 1 (Pick 11): Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

Paris Johnson Jr. is a versatile offensive lineman who started at both left and right tackle during his time at Ohio State. He is considered one of the top offensive tackle prospects in this year's draft class due to his athleticism, intelligence, and ability to protect the edge against powerful edge rushers. Johnson's versatility makes him an attractive option for the 49ers, who could use him at either left or right tackle depending on their needs at that time.

2. Round 2 (Pick 11): Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

Darnell Wright is another highly regarded offensive tackle prospect in this year's draft class. He is known for his size (6'5", 320 lbs) and strength, which makes him an ideal fit for the power running game that the 49ers employ. Wright's ability to anchor against bull rushes and his experience playing in a pro-style offense at Tennessee make him an attractive option for the team.

3. Round 3 (Pick 11): Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State

Dawand Jones is a massive offensive tackle from Ohio State who could potentially be available in the third round of the draft. He is known for his impressive size (6'8", 350 lbs) and his ability to move well for his size. Jones could provide depth and competition at right tackle or potentially even slide inside to guard if needed.

Now, regarding the possibility of a big trade, Kurtenbach's mock draft does not specify which elite offensive tackle prospect the 49ers might target. However, it is worth noting that the team has been linked to several top prospects in recent months, including Alabama's Evan Neal and Notre Dame's Tyler Smith.

Trading up in the draft to secure one of these prospects would likely require significant resources, including multiple draft picks or even current roster players. The cost of such a move remains to be seen, but it is clear that the 49ers are committed to addressing their need at offensive tackle in a major way this offseason.

In summary, according to Kurtenbach's mock draft, the San Francisco 49ers are targeting offensive tackles Paris Johnson Jr., Darnell Wright, and Dawand Jones in the first three rounds of the 2023 NFL Draft. Additionally, there is a possibility of a big trade to acquire an elite offensive tackle prospect such as Evan Neal or Tyler Smith. The team's commitment to addressing their offensive line needs is evident as they approach the draft.