SF 49ers free agency: 5 offensive linemen to target in 2021
By Peter Panacy
No. 4: Left Tackle Alejandro Villanueva, Pittsburgh Steelers
Admittedly, it would be weird to see veteran left tackle Alejandro Villanueva play anywhere else after being with the Pittsburgh Steelers all his career dating back to his rookie 2014 season.
But there’s a strong chance Pittsburgh has to move on from the 32 year old this offseason, particularly when looking at the fact it’s a projected $35.1 million over the salary cap for 2021 and will need to make some awfully tough financial decisions. Re-signing Villanueva might be a luxury move the Steelers simply can’t afford.
If there’s a possible contingency plan for the SF 49ers if they can’t re-sign Trent Williams, Villanueva could be it. While nowhere near as prolific as Williams, Villanueva, a two-time Pro Bowler, hasn’t missed a game since his rookie season and even managed to participate on every Steelers offensive snap from 2020.
Durability can be just as vital as performance, and Villanueva has that.
Plus, considering the contingency plan, Villanueva would come much cheaper than Williams, which would at least give the Niners some leniency if they need to save some money but don’t want to suffer a massive downgrade at left tackle.