San Francisco 49ers: Ranking 10 Best Players on Offense in 2016
No. 9 – Zane Beadles
The signing of Zane Beadles by the 49ers barely caused a stir but, in adding the former Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars guard to the roster, San Francisco has recruited a player who is already one of the better components of its offensive line.
Beadles’ play declined in 2015, however, this drop off may have coincided with the Jaguars’ move away from the zone-blocking scheme that Kelly will likely employ with the 49ers in the 2016 campaign.
Beadles had a shaky two years in JAX, but played every snap. +1.5 overall grade in 2014 dropped to -14.6 in 2015 with move away from ZBS.
— Jeff Deeney (@PFF_Jeff) March 17, 2016
Despite his issues in 2015, Beadles has a number of positive qualities that make him a strong fit to start at guard this coming season. He is quick off the snap and can get upfield in a hurry, showing little hesitation in taking on linebackers at the next level.
Additionally, Beadles demonstrates impressive body strength and is a tough man to move when he drops his anchor as a pass protector, where he also shows the skills to redirect and pick up secondary assignments.
The issue Beadles seems to have, though, is consistency. Beadles does not set his feet on a regular basis when pass blocking, which can allow him to be moved by opposing defenders, and could do a better job of embracing contact with players he has the size advantage over.
Beadles can also struggle to deal with inside pass-rush moves but given his experience and familiarity with the zone-blocking scheme, heads into the season as one of the top three O-linemen on the roster.
Next: No. 8