These 49ers draft prospects absolutely nailed their NFL Combine
49ers Prospect No. 2: Blake Freeland, Offensive Tackle, BYU
If Mike McGlinchey leaves in free agency and a veteran isn’t brought in to fill the void at right tackle, San Francisco is likely to use at least one pick to replenish the position. The team has a few tackles developing in Jaylon Moore and Nick Zakelj, but it’ll need to add more.
Blake Freeland had himself a good NFL Combine, showing off his athleticism with a 4.98-second 40-yard dash time and measuring in at 302 pounds and just at 6-foot-7 and 7/8 inches.
Freeland wasn’t perfect in the drills. His speed and lateral movement led him to impress at times, but he does have technique issues surrounding his footwork and pad level. He’ll need to learn to lower his base when facing NFL pass-rushers, or he’ll get too easily beaten.
The tools are there, though. Freeland isn’t someone who can start Week 1, but he can be a Day 3 developmental prospect who progresses to a starting level.
This’ll suit the 49ers fine as a team with plenty of Day 3 picks. He could even be an understudy to left tackle Trent Williams and be ready to start by the time Williams retires.
Freeland has the size and athleticism to be a left tackle in the NFL.