49ers Draft Star: QB-Turned-WR from San Jose State Joins San Francisco

San Francisco,Tu – April 15, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers head into the 2025 NFL Draft with a mandate to rebuild depth after a 6-11 season, particularly at wide receiver following the trade of Deebo Samuel to Washington. With Brandon Aiyuk extended and Ricky Pearsall drafted in the first round last year, the 49ers may bypass an early receiver pick. Instead, a sleeper prospect, San Jose State’s Nick Nash, emerges as a potential late-round steal to bolster Kyle Shanahan’s creative offense.

Nash, a former quarterback turned wide receiver, offers a unique skill set. After three years leading San Jose State’s offense, he transitioned to receiver in 2023, exploding for 1,382 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2024. His 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame, combined with quarterback instincts, makes him a versatile weapon. Nash’s ability to read defenses and execute gadget plays aligns with Shanahan’s playbook, which thrives on multi-dimensional players like Samuel or Christian McCaffrey.

The 49ers’ receiver room, featuring Aiyuk, Pearsall, and Jauan Jennings, has talent but lacks depth. Pearsall’s rookie season was marred by injury, and Jennings remains a free-agent question mark. Nash, projected as a fourth- to seventh-round pick, represents a low-cost addition. His local ties to the Bay Area—San Jose State is just 45 miles from Levi’s Stadium—could endear him to fans while simplifying scouting for John Lynch’s front office.

Nash’s transition from quarterback showcases his adaptability. His 2024 tape reveals crisp route-running and reliable hands, with 104 receptions highlighting his quick adjustment to the position. However, his six-year college tenure and limited experience as a receiver raise concerns about his ceiling. At 24, Nash is older than typical prospects, potentially capping his long-term upside in a league favoring younger talent.

What makes Nash intriguing is Shanahan’s track record with late-round finds. From George Kittle (fifth round) to Brock Purdy (seventh), the 49ers excel at unearthing diamonds in the rough. Nash’s quarterback background could see him deployed in trick plays or jet sweeps, adding unpredictability to an offense that slumped to 21st in scoring (20.7 points per game) in 2024.

The risk with Nash lies in his rawness. His route tree is developing, and he lacks elite speed (estimated 4.5-second 40-yard dash) to stretch defenses. Competing against polished receivers like Aiyuk for snaps will be tough, and Nash may initially contribute on special teams. The 49ers must decide if his potential outweighs the need for immediate contributors at other positions, like offensive line or defensive tackle.

Financially, Nash is a low-stakes bet. With 11 draft picks and $22 million in 2025 cap space, the 49ers can afford to gamble on a project player. His rookie contract—roughly $4 million over four years—won’t strain the budget, allowing flexibility to address urgent needs like replacing Trent Williams or Javon Hargrave. A late-round selection could yield a high reward if Shanahan unlocks Nash’s versatility.

Ultimately, drafting Nash reflects the 49ers’ strategy of blending immediate needs with long-term vision. While their No. 11 pick will likely target a defensive lineman like Mason Graham, a sleeper like Nash could provide offensive spark. As San Francisco aims to rebound in 2025, Nash’s Bay Area roots and dynamic skill set make him a name to watch on draft weekend.