49ers mock NFL Draft: Niners gouge on 2023 Senior Bowl sleepers
By Peter Panacy
Round 5, Pick No. 166 overall (from Dolphins): Offensive tackle Ryan Hayes, Michigan
The 49ers already had this pick from the Miami Dolphins as a result of last season’s trade of running back Jeff Wilson Jr.
And while the Niners may be tempted to flip this pick into another running back, they instead wisely look to reinforce the offensive line.
Again.
There is a need, particularly if right tackle Mike McGlinchey winds up signing elsewhere in NFL free agency, and it sure seems as if that’ll happen. McGlinchey would like to return, but San Francisco probably wants to allocate resources elsewhere.
The 49ers have a few options to replace McGlinchey, such as promoting Colton McKivitz from a backup role, but going after someone like Michigan’s Ryan Hayes on day three might work out well, too.
Hayes had an OK week of Senior Bowl practices, and he might not be a clear-cut starter. He does, however, have the ability to play both tackle spots.