49ers Need Edge Rusher to Contend

0:00It's April 16th. From your city to your ears, this is California News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. The San Francisco 49ers know their pass rush needs a major boost heading into this NFL draft from April 23rd to 25th. Last season, they managed just 26 over 17 games, even with a solid 12-5 record, a wildcard win over Philly and a tough. Visional loss to Seattle. Nick Bolz's early ACLT are killed their edge pressure, and with our real help opposite him, they can't contend for another Super Bowl run. Teens like the 49ers have flashed talent before, from legends like Charles Haley and Alden Smith to recent guys like Javan Hargrave and Clellan, Farrell. But nobody stuck as that pure outside speed rusher. They tried D-Ford, Robert Biel Jr., and just signed Cameron Sample from the Bengals, who plays both sides, but it's clear they need a dedicated. Jet Russia to pair with Bosa.

1:00Fans and analysts see the gap loud and clear. It's the source spot holding them back from elite status. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah highlighted this on a conference call, pushing Central Florida's Malachi Lawrence as a perfect scheme fit for there, attack front under Coach Chris Cokerick. Jeremiah ranks Lawrence 46 overall, but loves his traits for a late first round steal at the 49ers 27th pick, 6'4", and a half, 4.5, 240 time, violent hands, and explosive jumps. The guy stayed loyal at UCF for five years, racked up 20 career sex, and could crash the party opposite Bosa, though run defense is a question at 253 pounds. With young interior studs like Michael Williams sliding inside, plus tight in depth needed while George Kittle heals, this draft feels primed to fix. The edges and build that fearsome line. Though pair speed from the outside with pocket push inside, turning weaknesses into weapons for a D-playoff push.