The 2019 NFL Draft marked a pivotal moment for the San Francisco 49ers, shaping the core identity of Kyle Shanahan’s team. The selections from this draft class continue to influence the team even years later, defining both its offense and defense.
In 2018, the 49ers faced setbacks with quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s knee injury. Their performance declined, resulting in a near-first overall pick in the 2019 draft. However, the Arizona Cardinals, despite having a worse record, clinched the first pick by defeating the 49ers twice. This outcome bumped San Francisco to the second overall pick.
Nick Bosa: Defensive Cornerstone
With the second pick, the 49ers selected defensive end Nick Bosa from Ohio State. Bosa instantly transformed the 49ers’ pass rush, becoming one of the league’s premier edge rushers. His ability to command double and triple teams significantly disrupted opposing offenses. Although an ACL injury curtailed his 2025 season, Bosa’s impact on the defense remains undeniable and critical to the team’s identity.
Deebo Samuel: Offensive Versatility
In the second round, the 49ers picked wide receiver Deebo Samuel from South Carolina. Samuel quickly developed into a unique offensive weapon under Shanahan’s system, pioneering the “wide back” role that blended receiver and running back responsibilities. His physicality and versatility challenged defenses regularly. Though traded to the Washington Commanders later, Samuel’s influence on San Francisco’s offense during his tenure was significant.
Mixed Results in the Middle Rounds
The third-round pick, wide receiver Jalen Hurd from Baylor, appeared promising due to his size and versatility. Unfortunately, injuries prevented him from contributing, culminating in his retirement without playing an NFL regular-season game. Fourth-round selection Mitch Wishnowsky, a punter from Utah, showed potential with his aggressive style and mobility. However, he was released in 2025 and moved across several teams thereafter.
Dre Greenlaw: Linebacker Steal
The fifth-round selection, linebacker Dre Greenlaw from Arkansas, emerged as a valuable asset on defense. Paired with Fred Warner, Greenlaw helped form one of the 49ers’ best linebacker duos since the Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman era. His crucial goal-line stop in Week 17 of 2019 secured the NFC’s top seed for San Francisco. Despite his success, salary cap constraints led to Greenlaw signing with the Denver Broncos in 2025.
Later Picks and Team Depth
The remaining draft picks had limited impact. Tight end Kaden Smith from Stanford was waived before completing his rookie season. Offensive tackle Justin Skule from Vanderbilt lasted slightly longer but did not make a lasting impression. Cornerback Tim Harris from Virginia never played a regular-season game for the 49ers and later competed in the XFL.
Summary of the 2019 Draft Class:
- Round 1, Pick 2: Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
- Round 2, Pick 36: Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
- Round 3, Pick 67: Jalen Hurd, WR, Baylor
- Round 4, Pick 110: Mitch Wishnowsky, P, Utah
- Round 5, Pick 148: Dre Greenlaw, LB, Arkansas
- Round 6, Pick 176: Kaden Smith, TE, Stanford
- Round 6, Pick 183: Justin Skule, OT, Vanderbilt
- Round 6, Pick 198: Tim Harris, CB, Virginia
The 2019 draft was a defining moment for the 49ers, fueling their rise as a dominant team with foundational players like Bosa and Greenlaw. While not all picks succeeded, the class solidified pieces that remain influential. This draft laid the groundwork that future franchise decisions would build upon, demonstrating both the triumphs and challenges of team building in the NFL.
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