5 free agents who would turn 49ers into Super Bowl favorites

49ers NFL free agency target No. 4: OC Connor McGovern, Jets

Yes, let’s continue focusing on the offensive line for the Niners, right? Notice a trend?

Granted, San Francisco’s O-line outperformed expectations over the course of 2022, but it’s a unit that’ll both see change and need improvement, particularly if Mike McGlinchey leaves.

Also, center Jake Brendel wrapped up his first-ever year as a starter on a high note, and he could look to capitalize on a good season on the open market as a free agent. Perhaps the 49ers bring him back on a relatively affordable contract, but that doesn’t point to Brendel being the best option out there for Kyle Shanahan, who has always placed a lot of emphasis on center play.

Enter New York Jets center Connor McGovern, who’d likely thrive in Shanahan’s offense.

McGovern, who’ll turn 30 years old this offseason, spent the last two years in a Shanahan-tree system with then-Jets offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur.

And, according to Pro Football Focus, McGovern allowed just five sacks and four quarterback hits over the course of 2022, finishing with a solid 69.6 overall grade in the process.

If Shanahan wants the upgrade at center over Brendel, McGovern is the choice.