The San Francisco 49ers are entering the 2025 NFL Draft with a glaring need for reinforcements after a free agency exodus that left fans clutching their pearls. With talent like Charvarius Ward and Deebo Samuel Sr. walking out the door, it’s safe to say the Niners have a laundry list of issues to tackle – pun totally intended.

Enter Mel Kiper Jr., the beloved (or is it begrudged?) draft guru, who has pulled out his crystal ball and predicted that the Niners will add some serious muscle to their offensive line with the 11th overall pick. Kiper has his sights set on Armand Membou, a hulking 6-foot-4, 332-pound offensive tackle/guard from Missouri, and let’s just say the dude knows how to block!

According to Kiper, the offensive line is a priority for the 49ers, especially considering they’re in the midst of negotiations to extend quarterback Brock Purdy’s contract. The man needs protection – unless he’s looking for a new hobby in dodging defenders.

Kiper notes that with the departure of Aaron Banks and Jaylon Moore, along with the advancing age of Trent Williams (who’ll be 37), it’s crucial to load up on pass protection. This is San Francisco, after all! We don’t want your quarterback ending up in the hospital – or worse, sipping kale shakes and jogging at Golden Gate Park instead of tossing touchdowns.

As for Membou, he’s got experience under his belt; he started 30 games in college and earned some serious accolades along the way, including 2024 Second Team All-SEC honors. Plus, with a speedy 4.91-second 40-yard dash time, he’s not just a boulder in the trenches. This kid can move, which is a good sign for a team that’s trying to revive its championship dreams.

The draft is just around the corner, April 24th to be exact, and the excitement is creeping up. Can Membou bring some much-needed swagger back to Levi’s Stadium? One can only hope the front office is listening! Keep your fingers crossed, 49ers fans. You deserve some good news! For once.