3 options 49ers have to replace Joe Staley if he retires
By Peter Panacy
No. 1: 49ers Use One of Two First-Round Picks on a Tackle
The Niners own two Round 1 selections in the upcoming NFL Draft, bringing their own (No. 31 overall) into the fray and boasting the No. 13 overall pick after trading away defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts.
It’s widely suspected San Francisco will use one of those two picks on a much-needed wide receiver, while cornerback is also a pressing need. Replacing Buckner could be in the mix, too, depending on how the first round pans out.
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This year’s draft is awfully topheavy with offensive line talent, particularly on the outside, which includes likely first- or early second-round options below:
- Tristan Wirfs, Iowa
- Mekhi Becton, Louisville
- Andrew Thomas, Georgia
- Jedrick Wills, Alabama
- Josh Jones, Houston
- Austin Jackson, USC
Wirfs, Becton and perhaps Wills could be in play for the 49ers’ first pick at No. 13 overall, which shouldn’t be a shocker if things pan out that way.
After all, the Niners made something of a shocking pick back in 2018 when they selected Mike McGlinchey at No. 9 overall.
Going this route, however, would endanger the team’s abilities to address other positions. But good teams build in the trenches, and better teams ensure long-term continuity up front before worrying about some of the other spots on the roster.
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Because of this, don’t overlook the idea San Francisco kicks off its 2020 draft class with an offensive lineman to replace Joe Staley, be it immediately or in a season or two.