The 49ers’ Defensive Line Struggles and Their Path to Redemption
The San Francisco 49ers have built a legacy on dominant defensive line play, but in recent years, that reputation has taken a hit. Since drafting Nick Bosa with the second overall pick in 2019, the team has struggled to develop homegrown talent in the trenches. Their attempts to bolster the defensive front through the draft have fallen flat, forcing them to rely heavily on short-term fixes via free agency and trades. As a result, the defense suffered a historic collapse in 2024, leading to major changes in the coaching staff and a renewed sense of urgency heading into the 2025 NFL Draft.
A Decade of Drafting Failures
The 49ers’ recent draft history along the defensive line has been nothing short of disastrous. Despite investing in players like Javon Kinlaw, Drake Jackson, Kalia Davis, and Robert Beal Jr., the quartet has combined for just 13 sacks over 10 total seasons. This staggering statistic underscores the team’s inability to develop pass-rushing talent outside of Bosa.
Without a pipeline of young, productive linemen, the team has resorted to costly free-agent signings and trades to compensate. The 49ers handed Javon Hargrave a $40 million guaranteed contract in 2023, only to move on from him after two seasons. They also traded for former second-overall pick Chase Young, but his tenure in San Francisco was underwhelming, producing just 3.5 sacks in 12 games before he departed in free agency.
Defensive Collapse in 2024
The lack of long-term planning on the defensive line finally caught up to the 49ers in 2024. The team allowed 436 points, marking its worst defensive performance since 2016. The struggles were particularly evident against elite offenses, as opposing quarterbacks had far too much time in the pocket.
As a result, the 49ers fired defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen, marking the second consecutive year the team parted ways with its defensive play-caller. The frustration even spilled onto the field, with Nick Bosa publicly criticizing the unit, calling its performance “kind of an embarrassment.”
Hope on the Horizon: The 2025 NFL Draft
Despite recent setbacks, there is reason for optimism heading into the 2025 season. The upcoming NFL Draft boasts one of the strongest defensive line classes in years, giving the 49ers a golden opportunity to replenish their front four.
Among the top targets are Michigan’s Mason Graham, Oregon’s Derrick Harmon, and Maryland’s Jordan Phillips. Graham, in particular, has the potential to be a game-changer on the interior, and if the 49ers view him as a cornerstone piece, a trade-up could be in play.
The Return of Robert Saleh
Another reason for hope is the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator. Saleh played a pivotal role in constructing the dominant 2019 defense and has a track record of developing talent from within. His presence could help shift the team’s philosophy back toward grooming young defensive linemen rather than relying on expensive veteran signings.
Additionally, Saleh’s return may lead to potential reunions with former 49ers like Solomon Thomas or Javon Kinlaw, who could be brought back as affordable depth pieces. While neither player lived up to their initial draft hype, they could still provide rotational value in a system they are familiar with.
A Crucial Offseason Ahead
At this stage, it is clear that the 49ers cannot continue their patchwork approach to fixing the defensive line. With 10 draft picks in 2025, the team has a prime opportunity to invest in young, high-impact players who can develop alongside Bosa. If they fail to do so, their defensive struggles will persist, and the same conversations about their inability to build through the draft will resurface.
For a franchise that has built its identity on dominant defensive play, this offseason represents a pivotal moment. The 49ers must make the right moves or risk further regression in an increasingly competitive NFC.
