49ers training camp: 5 position battles that demand you watch

49ers training camp battle No. 1: Offensive line

In the case of 49ers training camp battles that arguably have too much depth, such as cornerback and wide receiver, one can actually be a bit worried about the Niners’ situation with their offensive line.

Especially after losing Pro Bowl left guard Laken Tomlinson to free agency and fellow Pro Bowler, center Alex Mack, to retirement this offseason.

While San Francisco doesn’t have to worry much about All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams, essentially every other spot commands some concern. The 49ers appear poised to start Aaron Banks, who saw a mere five regular-season snaps a year ago, in Tomlinson’s stead, while Mack’s vacancy is probably filled by perennial journeyman Jake Brendel and his three regular-season starts dating back to 2016.

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Right guard Daniel Brunskill isn’t exactly a massive concern, but he’s not a primary strength either. And with right tackle Mike McGlinchey working his way back from a torn quad suffered halfway through 2021, it’s understandable why fans should be a bit worried here.

True, the Niners did invest some assets towards reinforcing the O-line this offseason, namely day-three draft picks like Spencer Burford and Nick Zakelj. But, with both being rookies and having no clear path towards starting in year one, they can’t exactly be viewed as top-end commodities.

If anything, seeing who winds up serving as the backups to the presumed starting cast might be just as important as identifying the first-team unit, too.

49ers training camp kicks off on Tuesday, July 26 with practices beginning the next day.