San Francisco 49ers Reportedly Targeting Edge Rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft
As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the San Francisco 49ers are making waves with their reported strong interest in one of college football’s most intriguing defensive prospects—UCLA edge rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo. According to several sources, including NFL insider Tony Pauline, the 49ers are “very high” on Oladejo, signaling a strong possibility that the team may select him if he’s still on the board during their pick.
Oladejo’s path to the draft is a compelling story in itself. Originally starting his collegiate career at the University of California, Berkeley, he transferred to UCLA, where he underwent a notable position switch from linebacker to edge rusher. This transition allowed him to fully tap into his athleticism and versatility, traits that have caught the attention of NFL scouts across the league. In his final season at UCLA, Oladejo posted 14 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, while earning a solid 73.8 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus. His hybrid skillset makes him a unique prospect with a high ceiling, particularly for teams in need of speed and physicality on the edge.
For the 49ers, this interest in Oladejo makes perfect sense. With an already formidable defensive front that includes stars like Nick Bosa, adding another dynamic edge presence could elevate their pass rush to elite levels. San Francisco has consistently prioritized defensive depth, especially in the trenches, and Oladejo could provide both rotational strength and long-term potential. Despite not confirming formal meetings at the NFL Scouting Combine, the 49ers’ reported evaluations suggest a close monitoring of Oladejo’s performance and fit within their defensive scheme.
San Francisco is currently positioned in the late first to early second round of the draft, which aligns well with Oladejo’s projected draft range—somewhere between picks 30 and 45. This means a move to acquire him wouldn’t require an aggressive trade-up, making it a feasible and strategic investment. It’s also worth noting that Oladejo himself has expressed enthusiasm about potentially returning to the Bay Area. In a recent interview, he said, “It’d be dope, man… being in the Bay Area, that’d be dope,” suggesting a potential hometown narrative that could resonate with both fans and the franchise.
As the draft nears, the 49ers’ interest in Oladejo is a sign that the team is looking to refresh and fortify its already strong defense. His raw talent, high football IQ, and proven adaptability make him a compelling fit for a team known for its physical, aggressive defensive identity. Whether or not San Francisco ultimately lands him, their pursuit highlights a continued emphasis on building a roster capable of sustained success, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Should they secure Oladejo, the 49ers would be landing not just a promising edge rusher, but a player with the potential to become a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.
