San Francisco 49ers: 5 practice squad players who play a role in 2020

No. 5: Guard Ross Reynolds

The 49ers signed guard Ross Reynolds as an undrafted free agent out of Iowa in 2019. Although he didn’t make the 53-man roster, he was signed to the practice squad.

As a whole, the 49ers offensive line had bits of health troubles throughout their 2019 campaign. Aside from a season-ending injury to center Weston Richburg, there were not any other injuries to that group which kept players from eventually returning. And those injuries were largely absorbed by San Francisco’s depth.

Therefore, Reynolds didn’t get activated from the practice squad during 2019. But the importance of offensive linemen cannot be stressed enough.

Reynolds had a great career at Iowa, he earned second-team All-Big Ten honors during his senior year. And when his number gets called by the 49ersm he should be able to showcase some of the skills that initially intrigued them.

In 2019, offensive linemen Daniel Brunskill and Justin Skule were thrust into starting positions due to injuries at offensive tackle. They both proved themselves to be valuable assets at those spots. Interior offensive line depth was severely lacking, though.

And that is exactly where Reynolds can come in and make an impact.

Should there be shaky guard play in 2020, don’t be surprised if head coach Kyle Shanahan shakes things up.

It might be just the opportunity Reynolds needs.