San Francisco 49ers: 5 strongest positions on 2020 roster
By Peter Panacy
No. 4: 49ers Offensive Line
Projected 53-Man Roster Additions: Trent Williams, Laken Tomlinson, Weston Richburg, Daniel Brunskill, Mike McGlinchey, Ben Garland, Justin Skule, Colton McKivitz
Without getting too complicated with the league’s new collective bargaining agreement and how it affects offensive line numbers on the 53-man roster, let’s assume the Niners place eight players on the regular-season roster for Week 1.
Yes, the 49ers O-line went through more than a handful of changes during the offseason, namely losing Joe Staley and replacing him with Trent Williams. But some would argue the younger, healthier Williams is actually an upgrade over Staley anyway.
Depth is actually the key reason why San Francisco’s O-line is listed here, though. Last year, Daniel Brunskill proved himself a versatile and valuable piece last season, filling in for Staley, right tackle Mike McGlinchey and right guard Mike Person at various points, boasting a 1.89 percent pressure rate, per Pro Football Focus, which was third best on the team.
Brunskill could now be Person’s replacement at right guard.
Meanwhile, backups like Ben Garland and Justin Skule also showcased their reserve value last season, and that experience should bode well in case of any injury attrition.