49ers news: 2021 NFL free agency tracker with updates, analysis
By Peter Panacy
Alex Mack links back up with Kyle Shanahan
The 49ers are expected to part ways with veteran center Weston Richburg this offseason in the wake of him missing all of 2020 with an injury suffered back in 2019. And there’s a number of reports suggesting Richburg could retire, too, meaning this revolving-door spot for the Niners a year ago would be a priority entering 2021.
One of those names frequently linked to San Francisco was former Atlanta Falcons center Alex Mack, who played under Kyle Shanahan when both were in Atlanta in 2016 when the Falcons made it to the Super Bowl.
According to Ian Rapoport, Mack is reuniting with his former offensive coordinator, now head coach with the 49ers:
#Falcons free agent center Alex Mack is expected to sign with the #49ers, source said, as the Cal product lands back in the Bay Area. Mack has been with coach Kyle Shanahan in Cleveland and Atlanta... and now SF.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 17, 2021
With Mack now in town, the Niners have their offensive line complete heading into 2021. Trent Williams and Laken Tomlinson at left tackle and left guard, respectively, with Mack in the center. Daniel Brunskill moves back to right guard, while Mike McGlinchey gets back at right tackle.
At least San Francisco isn’t hesitating to invest in its offensive line unlike some other teams.