Early predictions for which 49ers make the Pro Bowl in 2019
By Peter Panacy
Offensive Tackles Trent Brown and Joe Staley
Injuries and some inconsistency paralleled a good chunk of right tackle Trent Brown’s 2017 campaign, and he was limited to just 10 games last season.
Sure, he might not be an ideal run-support fit in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Rather it’s his pass protection that will earn consideration for a Pro Bowl nod this upcoming season.
Brown’s 84.7 Pro Football Focus pass-blocking grade finished eighth among qualifiers at tackle last season. And with a full year in Shanahan’s offense, one can figure that only gets better for the 24 year old.
Making things more interesting is the fact Brown enters a contract year — an obvious boost for production. Should the 49ers land some additional competition to push Brown further, his pass-rushing prowess could make him a shoo-in for the Pro Bowl.
Meanwhile, Joe Staley’s 84.1 pass-blocking grade was a spot just below Brown on PFF’s list.
Staley, at 33 years old, is certainly looking at the tail end of his pro career. But after his sixth Pro Bowl nod after last season, Staley already has the well-earned assumption of consideration on a yearly basis.
Barring injury, he’ll get in.