49ers roster: 5 offseason additions who are paying off nicely
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: 49ers offensive guard Spencer Burford
The 49ers have had something of a knack for finding mid- and late-round gems in the NFL Draft, and this year’s example could easily wind up being former UTSA offensive lineman Spencer Burford, whom the team grabbed in Round 4.
Burford, who won the starting right guard spot out of training camp, has already shown plenty of mettle when it comes to him retaining this job.
Over 144 snaps at right guard, the rookie has yet to allow a single sack and has finished with a highly respectable 83.7 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus over two games.
#49ers Spencer Burford's PFF grade is a very solid 66.5. For perspective, Brunskill's was 61.4 last season and Alex Mack's was 70.4
— Tony Farmer (@Tonysmarkettips) September 20, 2022
It's worth noting that Burford's preseason PFF grade vs. weaker competition was only 52.1. This suggests he's a quick learner and improving rapidly
Entering the regular season, the interior of the Niners’ offensive line was viewed as a potential weakness, one of only a few the team had.
And while there are still some fair questions to ask of this group early, all signs are pointing to Burford being more of a solution than a problem.
Again proving San Francisco can find quality talent on day three of the NFL Draft.