49ers’ unconventional 2026 draft approach could pay dividends soon

Here’s a closer look at the 49ers’ 2026 draft class:

Instant impact player —  Romello Height, Edge, Texas Tech, Round 3, No. 70

The 49ers fielded the worst pass-rush team in the NFL last year, clearly the result of defensive end Nick Bosa and 2025 first-round pick Mykel Williams both suffering season-ending knee injuries. Assuming both are healthy, Height will slot behind them as a rotational player but should have plenty of opportunities to get after the passer. It’s a role he excelled in last year whole posting 10 sacks and 58 pressures at Texas Tech.

Steal/Best value pick — Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma, Round 4, No. 107

There is a lot to like about the former Oklahoma standout at this point in the draft. According to Pro Football Focus, Halton earned a run-defense grade of 86.9, which ranked 14th among the 887 qualified players at his position. He had nine run stops and 30 quarterback pressures, signs that he can be a solid player in run defense and pass rush. That is solid value in the fourth round.

Best player in 5 years —  De’Zhaun Stribling, WR, Ole Miss, Round 2, No. 33 overall

The 49ers love the speed Stribling brings — he ran a 4.36-second 40 at the combine — and the production after he posted 107 catches for 1,693 yards his last two years in college. He could see the field immediately as a result. But it’s his long-range future that they really like, and his skill set, coupled with the 49ers’ ability to develop wide receivers, could mean he is a bona fide star in five years.

Most questionable pick — Kaelon Black, RB, Indiana, Round 3, No. 90

The 49ers keep trying to hit on a running back in the mid-round range, drafting four players at that position since 2021. None has hit. It looked like Isaac Guerendo, a fourth-rounder in 2024, was on his way, but he completely disappeared in his second season. Will Black do what the other running backs couldn’t? The track record does not create a lot of confidence.