5 free-agent tackles 49ers could sign to replace Trent Williams
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: Kelvin Beachum, Arizona Cardinals
It’s never a bad move to pluck a division rival’s starter, especially if he’s been a decent producer during whatever stint of time he’s played. And such would be the case with Arizona Cardinals tackle Kelvin Beachum.
True, Beachum spent practically the entirety of 2020 at right tackle for Arizona, but he does have experience playing on the other side of the line from his days with the Jaguars, NY Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers. And as far as his production went last season, Beachum was effective enough having allowed just three sacks and 25 quarterback pressures.
While youth isn’t necessarily on Beachum’s side — he’ll turn 32 years old before the start of the 2021 season — he’s easily within the tier of quality starters just below the perennial Pro Bowl level of someone like Trent Williams.
Over the Cap valued Beachum’s 2020 value at $13.79 million, which wouldn’t be cheap. But if the 49ers are vying for a starting-caliber option but can’t quite afford Williams, Beachum would be a wise backup option.
Plus, removing a piece from a division rival’s O-line only helps matters, too.