49ers: Ranking San Francisco’s top 3 offseason needs
By Justin Fried
1. Interior Offensive Line
Head coach Kyle Shanahan was able to mask many of the deficiencies of the 49ers offensive line in 2019, but the team could certainly stand to upgrade the position in the offseason.
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While none of the five starters along the offensive line will be free agents later this month, that doesn’t mean that the team can’t still make some changes.
Mike McGlinchey and Joe Staley should continue to hold down the tackle positions with 2019 sixth-round pick Justin Skule serving as the primary backup swing tackle. But on the interior, the 49ers could use an upgrade.
Mike Person struggled at points last season — particularly in the Super Bowl — Laken Tomlinson is average at best, and center Weston Richburg has struggled to stay healthy the last two seasons. No to mention that spot starter Ben Garland will be a free agent.
The 49ers could feasibly move on from Person and his $2.5 million salary with no penalty if they see fit. Perhaps addressing the position in the draft would be a wise decision even if they are high on former AAF standout Daniel Brunskill.
Next. 49ers: Gauging the impact of re-signing Arik Armstead. dark
Either way, the interior offensive line remains one of the weaker spots on the team and filling the hole in the offseason should be a top priority for the 49ers.