The San Francisco 49ers, one of the NFL’s premier franchises, are renowned for their calculated talent acquisition strategies. In Sports Illustrated’s way-too-early 2026 mock draft, the 49ers are projected to select Kage Casey, an offensive tackle (OT) from Boise State, at the 25th overall pick. This selection is not only surprising but also comes with profound, even “shocking,” reasons that explain why the team is targeting a prospect like Casey.
Kage Casey: A Diamond in the Rough from Boise State
Kage Casey, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 316 pounds, is one of the brightest talents from the Boise State Broncos. Following an impressive 2024 season with a 12-2 record and the program’s first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, Casey caught the attention of NFL scouts. He has been a cornerstone at the left tackle position for two consecutive seasons, showcasing exceptional strength and remarkable blocking technique. According to Boise State head coach Tim Keane, Casey is highly regarded by NFL scouts for his ideal physique, agility, and relentless competitive spirit.
However, what makes this pick “shocking” is not just Casey’s talent but also the current context of the 49ers and their long-term strategy.
Shocking Reason: Finding a Successor for Legend Trent Williams
One of the most critical factors driving the 49ers’ interest in Casey is the urgent need to find a replacement for Trent Williams, the team’s legendary offensive tackle. Williams, who will turn 38 in 2026, is nearing the end of his illustrious career. Despite remaining one of the NFL’s top left tackles, his age and injury risks have forced the 49ers to plan for the long term to ensure the position isn’t left vacant.
Sports Illustrated highlights that the 49ers haven’t drafted an offensive tackle since 2021, when they selected Jaylon Moore (who has since moved to the Kansas City Chiefs). Currently, the team relies on Colton McKivitz, who will become a free agent next year, and Williams as their only dependable options at the position. Choosing Casey is not just a move to bolster the offensive line but also a clear statement: the 49ers are preparing for a future without Williams.
Strategy to Revamp the Offensive Line
The 49ers’ 2024 season fell short of expectations with a 6-11 record, largely due to issues with the offensive line. Despite heavy investments in defense during the 2025 NFL Draft with players like Mykel Williams and Alfred Collins, the 49ers faced criticism for neglecting their offensive line. Many analysts argue that this was the team’s biggest weakness, especially in protecting quarterback Brock Purdy, who recently signed a 5-year, $265 million extension.
Selecting Casey in the 2026 mock draft signals a strategic shift by head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch. Casey is not just a short-term fix but a long-term investment. With his size and skill set, he has the potential to become a top-tier left tackle, protecting Purdy and paving the way for running plays by Christian McCaffrey or future running backs.
Surprising Factor: Rejecting Lucrative NIL Money
Another shocking detail about Casey is his decision to turn down substantial Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) deals to stay at Boise State. In an era where many young athletes transfer schools for larger sponsorships, Casey prioritized personal development and loyalty to his team. This choice not only highlights his leadership qualities but also earned him high praise from NFL teams, including the 49ers, for his character and competitive drive.
The 49ers’ Vision: Building a New Dynasty
The selection of Casey is more than just filling a roster gap. It reflects the 49ers’ ambition to build a sustainable roster, balancing offense and defense. With Purdy’s future secured, a rejuvenated defensive line from the 2025 draft, and now a promising offensive tackle like Casey, the 49ers are laying the foundation for a new era.
While this is only an early projection, the 49ers’ interest in Kage Casey demonstrates their willingness to make bold decisions to address core issues. Will Casey truly become a worthy successor to Trent Williams? Only time will tell, but this choice has undoubtedly sparked heated debates among NFL fans.