Since taking the reins as general manager in 2017, John Lynch has transformed the San Francisco 49ers into perennial contenders. With two Super Bowl appearances under his belt, Lynch has earned a reputation for finding diamonds in the rough—think George Kittle in the fifth round, Brock Purdy as "Mr. Irrelevant," and defensive stars like Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw. But even the best GMs swing and miss. Here's a look at the 49ers' most disappointing draft picks during the Lynch era.

The 2026 NFL Draft saw the 49ers earn a solid C+/B- grade from analysts, highlighted by their second-round selection of Mississippi wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling. Initially, former 49ers Pro Bowl safety Donte Whitner criticized the pick, but he's since changed his tune. "I can admit that I was wrong about this kid," Whitner said on The Grit Code podcast. He praised Stribling as a "triple threat"—a receiver who can stretch the field, make tough catches in traffic, and deliver punishing blocks. "If this translates to the NFL, he's gonna give defensive backs hell," Whitner added.

Not every pick has aged so gracefully, though. Lynch's early drafts featured some head-scratchers that failed to live up to expectations. Whether it was reaching for need, betting on raw athleticism that never developed, or simply bad luck with injuries, these selections serve as reminders that even the sharpest front offices strike out.

From first-round gambles that fizzled to late-round projects that never panned out, the 49ers' draft history under Lynch isn't flawless. For fans and fantasy owners alike, understanding these misses helps put the hits—like Kittle, Purdy, and Warner—into sharper perspective. After all, building a championship roster is as much about learning from mistakes as it is about celebrating success.