49ers’ Draft Dream: Why They’re Rooting for a Quarterback Frenzy in the Top 10

The San Francisco 49ers aren’t in the market for a quarterback. But make no mistake—they’ll be watching the top QBs in this year’s NFL Draft with keen interest.

With Brock Purdy set for a long-term extension, neither Miami’s Cam Ward nor Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders should be on San Francisco’s radar. Both QBs are expected to be off the board before the 49ers pick at No. 11 overall, and that’s exactly why the team should be hoping for an early run on quarterbacks.

How a QB Run Could Hand the 49ers a Draft-Day Gift

The Athletic’s Dane Brugler doesn’t have either Ward or Sanders in his top 11 prospects. Meanwhile, NFL Media’s Daniel Jeremiah ranks Ward at No. 10 and Sanders at No. 11, while ESPN’s Matt Miller has Ward at No. 13 and Sanders at No. 22.

If both quarterbacks are selected in the top 10, it means two elite non-QB prospects will fall—potentially right into the 49ers’ lap at No. 11.

With offensive and defensive linemen dominating various draft analysts’ big boards, San Francisco could suddenly find itself in position to snag a game-changing talent. Players like LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell or Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham—both potential top-10 picks—could unexpectedly be available.

The 49ers’ Super Bowl Window Hinges on This Draft

For a team looking to extend its Super Bowl window beyond 2025, nailing this draft is crucial. And the more quarterbacks taken early, the better the chances that San Francisco lands a blue-chip prospect at a premium position of need.

So while the 49ers won’t be drafting a quarterback, they’ll certainly be cheering when Ward and Sanders come off the board early. The more teams that reach for QBs, the more likely the 49ers walk away with a draft-day steal.