49ers roster: 3 undrafted free agents who could start in 2022

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Arizona State Sun Devils offensive lineman Dohnovan West (61) Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

49ers UDFA No. 2: OL Dohnovan West

For months, the 49ers’ front office had been holding out hope Alex Mack would return for his 14th season. Mostly, because he’s a premier player and a mainstay at his position week after week. But also because the team had no successors if he decided to hang up his cleats.

Unfortunately, that day has come and gone, and the team is without a proven option to anchor the offensive front.

What’s even more astounding is that the need wasn’t addressed in this year’s draft.

Luckily, former Arizona Wildcat Dohnovan West was available to answer the call.

It’s difficult to think that two positions along the interior could be maned by rookies, but it wouldn’t be the first time that two started on the same O-line. It’s also hard to believe that West wasn’t drafted even with the thumb injury he had repaired during the offseason. Especially since many of the draft experts had him going sometime on Day 2.

In terms of a starting center, West checks all the boxes and brings plenty of versatility, and in college, he also played at both guard positions. He could also see stiff competition from backup center Jake Brendel, who has emerged as the favorite to start.

If Brendel does win the battle, West could start at one of the guard positions heading into Week 1.