Power ranking the 49ers’ 5 best position groups entering 2019
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: Offensive Line
Unlike wide receiver, the 49ers offensive line isn’t experiencing a ton of changes heading into 2019. Certainly not among the would-be starters, who remain intact from last season.
That’s typically a good thing, as O-lines require time to jell together.
San Francisco extended its veteran left tackle, Joe Staley, who continues to play at a high level despite turning 35 years old later this summer. And while second-year right tackle Mike McGlinchey had some issues with pass protection in 2018, there’s little questioning his run-blocking abilities — the key reason why the Niners used a first-round NFL Draft pick on him that year.
The 49ers’ bookends look to be OK heading into the year, although there are some questions along the interior. Center Weston Richburg, arguably endured his worst season as a pro in 2018, although he was hampered by an elongated knee injury, which required surgery during the offseason. Right guard Mike Person arguably had his best year in 2018, starting all 16 games.
So is it realistic to assume Richburg bounces back, while Person reverts back to backup-caliber play?
Perhaps.
That said, the Niners O-line finished 10th in run support last year, per Football Outsiders, yet ranked 22nd in pass protection. A full year together, combined with the prospects of a fully healthy unit, should hopefully improve the latter ranking.