The 49ers put a lot of eggs into the 2025 NFL draft basket.

Instead of retaining talented veterans or signing one of the top free agent classes in the NFL, San Francisco opted to get younger and to move off some pricier, aging contracts.

Now, it’s time for those draft picks to make the front office’s choice look like the proper path. But, just how much will the 49ers‘ rookies play in 2025?

Pro Football Network predicted rookie snaps for every NFL team and it paints a picture of a true youth invasion in San Fran.

PFN projects 49ers first-round defensive end Mykel Williams to garner 850-950, third-round linebacker Nick Martin to earn 750-850 snaps, second-round defensive tackle Alfred Collins to play 450-550 snaps, fourth-round defensive tackle CJ West to see 200-250 snaps and fourth-round wide receiver Jordan Watkins to also obtain 200-250 snaps.

Williams, prized for his length, physicality, and versatility, should play a good chunk of the team’s defensive snaps, with plans for him to contribute both as an outside rusher and sometimes shifting inside, using the same scheme flexibility he demonstrated at Georgia…

Along the interior, third-round pick Alfred Collins is projected for a significant rotational role and could push for a starting spot depending on his training camp progression. Fourth-rounder rookie C.J. West is expected to supply run-stopping depth, rotating on early downs.

Nick Martin brings athleticism and coverage skills to the linebacker room, and he could compete with Dee Winters to start alongside Fred Warner. On the other side of the ball, Jordan Watkins could contribute in select packages and on special teams. – Pro Football Network

San Francisco addressed its defense with each of its first five draft selections this past spring. So far, the early returns along the defensive line have been positive.

Western Kentucky defensive back Upton Stout was the other defensive player that the 49ers drafted within their first five selections in the third round.

Given the 49ers’ situation at receiver, Watkins figures to have a great chance to earn some snaps and impress.

While a number of rookies playing significant snaps or starting means there might be some on-the-job training, it would be terrific news for the franchise long-term if several of these names pan out.

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers expected to see large snap counts from 2025 rookie draft class