There was much made of the San Francisco 49ers’ draft strategy in 2026 and from previous drafts. It’s clear the 49ers have their own board, which is put together with physical and character traits that are desired by the organization. After one preseason game, the 49ers’ rookie class was on display against the Titans.
De’Zhaun Stribling was stellar with seven catches. Ephesians Prysock showed off his speed and length at cornerback. Jaden Dugger flashed while playing multiple spots on the defense.
Gracen Halton might have made the biggest impact on Thursday night. The defensive tackle spot has needed an upgrade and now with Osa Odighizuwa and Halton, the team may have found a formidable defensive tackle duo. Unfortunately, Alfred Collins experienced the same issues from last season on Thursday and was routinely moved by Tennessee’s offensive line. C.J. West is still recovering from injury.
Halton’s explosive first step was the story against Tennessee. On 15 pass rushing snaps, Halton generated a pressure and a QB hurry. However, against the run, Halton looked excellent, registering four defensive stops on 15 run defense snaps. Finishing with the highest run defense grade (75.0), Halton showed potential to be a three-down defensive tackle.
While Romello Height gets most of the attention as a pass rush specialist on obvious passing downs, the rookie struggled a bit. It was assumed the third-down package would consist of Nick Bosa, Odighizuwa, Mykel Williams (DT), and Height. It is still one preseason game, but the pass rushing package could be Bosa, Osa, Halton, and Mykel.
This may sound hyperbolic, but the duo of Odighizuwa and Halton is the best 49ers defensive tackle duo since DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead. What was once a weakness on the defensive line looks to be a strength in 2026. The 49ers might have found a gem in the fourth round. Drafting an impact player in the middle rounds has been the 49ers’ specialty, but it’s hard not to be excited about Halton and his potential.