As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the San Francisco 49ers are making it clear that their top priority lies in strengthening their defensive line. The team’s recent pre-draft visits highlight a clear direction toward adding more power and depth to their already formidable defense. With several defensive line prospects making their way to the 49ers’ facilities, this signals that the team is seriously considering this area for their first-round pick, and potentially beyond.
A Closer Look at Key Defensive Line Prospects
The 49ers have lined up visits with some of the top defensive line prospects ahead of the 2025 draft. According to Matt Barrows of The Athletic, Tennessee defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott, Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen, and Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams are among the top players the 49ers are taking a closer look at.
Omarr Norman-Lott: A Hidden Gem in the Later Rounds
While Norman-Lott may not be a projected first-round talent like Nolen and Williams, his skills could make him an intriguing pick for the 49ers, especially in the later rounds. At 6-2 and 291 pounds, Norman-Lott is a little undersized compared to traditional defensive tackles, but his 33 3/4-inch arms and explosive first step give him a clear advantage in both pass rush and run defense. Over the past four seasons, Norman-Lott has racked up 13.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses from the inside. Given the 49ers’ defensive needs, taking a chance on Norman-Lott could be a smart move, especially if they prioritize depth alongside their more established stars.
Walter Nolen and Mykel Williams: First-Round Candidates for the 49ers
Walter Nolen and Mykel Williams, on the other hand, are regarded as first-round talents, and both are frequently linked to the 49ers in mock drafts, particularly with the team’s No. 11 overall pick. Nolen, a standout defensive tackle from Ole Miss, and Williams, a dynamic defensive end from Georgia, have the skills to make an immediate impact in the NFL. Both players bring size, power, and quickness to their respective positions, which makes them an ideal fit for the 49ers’ aggressive defensive scheme.
Although there is a possibility that the 49ers could trade down in the first round to accumulate more draft capital, the fact that Nolen and Williams are visiting indicates they are top candidates for the 49ers at No. 11. Should one of them fall to the 49ers or if they decide to move up in the draft, these players could fill an immediate need on the defensive front.
Why the Defensive Line is a Priority for the 49ers
The 49ers’ defensive line has long been a strength of the team, but recent statements from general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan suggest that the team’s focus has shifted to fortifying this area even further. With the 49ers making minimal moves in free agency, especially in terms of adding depth to the defensive front, it’s clear that they need to prioritize this position in the draft.
The 49ers have one of the league’s top defenses, but they’ve faced challenges in recent years with depth and injuries along the defensive line. With key players like Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead continuing to anchor the defensive front, adding another powerful playmaker to the line could push this already elite unit to even greater heights. The team’s lack of action in free agency makes it evident that they intend to address the defensive line as early as possible in the draft.
The Offensive Line: Not a Priority in the First Round
Unlike in previous years, the 49ers are less likely to target the offensive line in the first round. Shanahan and Lynch have both publicly stated that they are satisfied with the current state of the offensive line, suggesting that a first-round talent in this area may not be necessary. This frees up the 49ers to focus on areas that could elevate their team immediately, with the defensive line standing out as the clear top priority.
The Potential Impact of Pre-Draft Visits
Pre-draft visits are often a good indicator of where a team is focusing its efforts ahead of the big day, and for the 49ers, their interest in these defensive line prospects is no surprise. While pre-draft visits don’t always guarantee a player’s selection, the fact that the 49ers are evaluating top-tier talent in this area suggests they are ready to make a splash in the first round. If one of these players, particularly Nolen or Williams, falls into their lap, the 49ers could jump at the opportunity to bolster their defensive front.
If the 49ers do indeed prioritize the defensive line, they would be adding significant talent to an already elite defense, positioning themselves for a deep playoff run in the coming season. Their pre-draft moves indicate a clear strategy for addressing this need, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if these visits lead to big moves on draft night.