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

In his latest 7-round mock draft, NFL insider and analyst Matt Kawahara of The San Francisco Chronicle, known as Kurtenbach, has the San Francisco 49ers prioritizing the offensive line position in each of their first six picks. With just two weeks remaining until the NFL Draft, which is scheduled to take place from April 28 to April 30, 2023, let's delve deeper into Kurtenbach's mock draft and explore the rationale behind the Niners' focus on offensive tackles and potential trades for elite prospects.

First Round (10th overall): The 49ers select Paris Johnson Jr., Offensive Tackle, Ohio State

Paris Johnson Jr., a versatile offensive lineman from Ohio State, is projected as one of the top offensive tackles in this year's draft class. He has experience playing both left and right tackle positions, making him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offensive line. Johnson's athleticism, size (6'6", 310 lbs), and technical skills make him an excellent fit for the 49ers, who have been in search of a long-term solution at left tackle since Joe Staley's retirement in 2020.

Second Round (36th overall): The 49ers select Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee

Darnell Wright, a 6'5", 320-pound offensive tackle from Tennessee, is another highly regarded prospect in this year's draft class. Wright's impressive combination of size, strength, and agility makes him an ideal candidate to compete for a starting role at right tackle or potentially even at guard in the NFL. The 49ers' offensive line has been plagued by injuries in recent years, making it crucial for them to add depth and versatility to their roster.

Third Round (68th overall): The 49ers select John Michael Schmitz, Center, Minnesota

John Michael Schmitz, a center from Minnesota, is a versatile offensive lineman who can also play guard. With Daniel Brunskill set to become a free agent, the 49ers could use this pick to secure their interior offensive line depth. Schmitz's intelligence, athleticism, and solid technique make him an excellent fit for the team's zone-blocking scheme.

Fourth Round (110th overall): The 49ers select Marquan McCall, Guard, Tennessee

Marquan McCall, a guard from Tennessee, is a powerful run blocker who could provide valuable depth and competition at the guard position for the 49ets. McCall's size (6'3", 320 lbs) and strength make him an attractive option for teams looking to improve their interior offensive line.

Fifth Round (153rd overall): The 49ers select Ja'Tyre Carter, Offensive Tackle, Southern

Ja'Tyre Carter, a 6'5", 305-pound offensive tackle from Southern University, is an intriguing prospect who could potentially develop into a solid depth piece for the 49ers' offensive line. Carter's quick feet, agility, and potential upside make him an intriguing selection in the fifth round.

Sixth Round (185th overall): The 49ers select Tyler Steen, Offensive Tackle, Indiana

Tyler Steen, a 6'5", 305-pound offensive tackle from Indiana, is another versatile lineman who could provide depth at both tackle positions for the 49ers. Steen's athleticism, length, and potential make him an intriguing developmental project for the team.

Big Trade: Acquiring an Elite Prospect

Kurtenbach's mock draft also suggests that the 49ers could be involved in a significant trade to acquire an elite offensive tackle prospect before or during the draft. With the team's focus on improving their offensive line, it's not far-fetched to imagine them making a bold move to secure a top-tier talent. Potential targets could include Alabama's Evan Neal or North Carolina State's Ikem Ekwonu, both of whom are projected as top-10 picks in this year's draft.

In conclusion, Kurtenbach's 7-round mock draft highlights the San Francisco 49ers' commitment to addressing their offensive line needs in the upcoming NFL Draft. By selecting