The San Francisco 49ers entered the 2026 NFL Draft with offensive tackle high on their list of needs. With Trent Williams set to turn 38 in July, questions naturally surround the long-term plan at the critical left tackle position. Many projected the team to address the need early in the rookie selection process.

The 49ers ended up drafting two offensive tackles. However, Washington product Carver Willis, a fourth-round pick, is expected to transition inside and compete at left guard.


In the fifth round, San Francisco added former Kansas offensive lineman Enrique Cruz Jr., a versatile prospect who brings intriguing athletic traits and the ability to contribute at multiple positions. While Cruz could eventually compete for a larger role, he is expected to provide immediate depth, possibly as a swing tackle.

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"Cruz is a guy that, throughout the process, we became very intrigued with," general manager John Lynch said on Saturday. "[Offensive line coach] Chris Foerster went out, worked him out, and I think that was a big step for us."

Cruz will have the opportunity to learn from one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles in Williams, who remains under contract through the 2027 season after signing a two-year extension. The rookie welcomed that opportunity.

"Oh, he's one of the best tackles ever," Cruz said after learning he was headed to the 49ers. "He is one of the greatest ever. I'm just so excited to meet him and be able to learn a lot from him."

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Cruz's athletic profile is a major part of his appeal. He tested in the 90th percentile or better among offensive tackles, a factor that clearly stood out to San Francisco's decision-makers.


"You're looking at a guy that, amongst all the offensive linemen, had the fastest 20-time, that has the highest vertical jump, the highest speed of any of the offensive tackles in a game," Lynch added. "Now, is that all valuable for an offensive tackle? We'll see, but it speaks to the type of athlete he is.

"And we had a good feel on him. We did more work and got to a point where we think he's a tackle. We think he may have guard flex, but we're excited to add him to the to the offensive line group to add some competition."

While Cruz may not make an immediate impact, the 49ers saw enough in the raw prospect to add him as a developmental piece that could factor into the team's long-term plans on the offensive line.

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