Loser: The Offensive Line
Most media reports on OTAs, in one way or another, have noted the 49ers defensive front having its way with San Francisco’s offensive line.
Niners Wire’s Chris Biderman was among those to note this:
"It’s still early in the process, there are no pads and the offensive line is in flux. But it’s safe to say the strength of San Francisco’s team is along the defensive line. And it should be. That’s where most of the team’s premier draft picks have gone in recent seasons."
While this is good news for the defense, it doesn’t exactly look good for an O-line in the works.
49ers O did not look good today. Very few plays made. Matt Barkley was having trouble completing a pass. That said, D was flying around
— Kevin Jones (@Mr_KevinJones) May 23, 2017
Sure, there aren’t any pads and blocking is kept to a minimum. But we’ve already discussed offensive tackle Garry Gilliam’s issues handling edge rushers. In addition, veteran center Jeremy Zuttah suffered an apparent injury and second-year guard Joshua Garnett is shifting between left and right guard.
The latter isn’t particularly a concern, as Garnett played on the left in college. Rather it’s a sign the Niners don’t quite know how this group will pan out.
O-lines need time to jell as a unit and, right now, the only solidified position is left tackle Joe Staley.