3 ways 49ers support Trey Lance in 2022 NFL Draft
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: 49ers can’t neglect the offensive line
It all starts in the trenches, right?
On the surface, the Niners’ starting offensive line appears set for 2022. From left to right, All-Pro Trent Williams, 2021 second-round draftee Aaron Banks, Pro Bowl center Alex Mack, the versatile Daniel Brunskill and then Mike McGlinchey.
But Banks hardly played last season (five regular-season offensive snaps), while McGlinchey is still working his way back from a torn quad suffered halfway through 2021. Brunskill’s spot at right guard could stand for an upgrade, too.
What’s arguably more concerning, though, is the depth San Francisco has is questionable at best, especially after losing swing tackle Tom Compton to the Denver Broncos.
Fortunately, there are plenty of quality linemen in this year’s draft.
If the 49ers are looking at interior linemen, Memphis’ Dylan Parham would be a solid day-two pick to help at guard or back up Mack at center. Washington’s Abraham Lucas could be a plug-and-play right tackle if McGlinchey isn’t close to 100 percent.
Either way, shoring up the offensive line and adding key depth pieces will be more than enough to ensure Trey Lance is adequately protected.