9. San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco is another team whose success is predicated on the offensive line play, as the team utilizes the run game to open up the play action and the middle of the field. Kyle Shanahan is an offensive genius, and loves using his offensive line to dominate the opposition at the line of attack. The 49ers impose their will on teams when they run and pass the ball with their dominant offensive line play.
Before the 2020 season, the 49ers traded their 2020 fifth-round pick and 2021 third-round pick to Washington in exchange for Trent Williams. The trade was a steal for San Francisco, as the team was bringing in one of the best left tackles in the league to an already stout offensive line. Williams was as advertised in the 2020 season for the 49ers, posting a 91.9 PFF grade and committed only 10 penalties, fourth among tackles in the NFL. The 32-year-old tackle did hit the open market this offseason, and the Chiefs pushed the 49ers to the edge when it came to signing Williams. San Francisco ended up outbidding Kansas City by giving Williams a six-year, $138 million contract that includes $55.1 million in guaranteed money. The left tackle position is solidified for years to come for the 49ers, and Williams will be a great protector for either Jimmy Garoppolo or rookie Trey Lance.
The 49ers signed 12-year veteran Alex Mack very early in the offseason. The former Atlanta Falcon center had been a reliable offensive lineman over the last five to six years. The 35-year-old center has only missed two games in the last six seasons, and has shown that he can still play at a high level. Mack has past experience with Shanahan, and his veteran presence should help the younger guys continue to develop and grow into their positions.
Right guard has been a weakness on this offensive line for the 49ers in the last year or two, so San Francisco addressed that position with their second-round pick. The 49ers drafted Notre Dame guard Aaron Banks with the 48th overall pick. The 6’5”, 338-pound lineman has incredibly fast feet and moves well in space. The most impact he will make immediately is helping out Mike McGlinchey in pass protection. McGlinchey struggles in pass protection, but Banks was dominant in pass protection during his time at Notre Dame. Banks’ size and athleticism will be a welcome sight for whoever starts at quarterback for San Francisco.
Projected Starting Offensive Line:
- LT – Trent Williams
- LG – Laken Tomlinson
- C – Alex Mack
- RG – Aaron Banks
- RT – Mike McGlinchey