The San Francisco 49ers may have made a few big-name additions in free agency this offseason, but they aren't done building out their roster. While Kyle Shanahan's offense is loaded with stars, it lacks depth at key positions.
The offensive line is thin once again, especially if Trent Williams doesn't play for San Francisco in 2026. General manager John Lynch will likely look to add another depth piece up front, either through free agency or the upcoming draft.
Bleacher Report's Moe Moton just offered a third option.
In a recent article, he proposed a trade that would land the Niners current Houston Texans interior lineman Jarrett Patterson.
Moton said:
"San Francisco should reach out to the Houston Texans, who signed three-time Pro Bowl guard Wyatt Teller. The 49ers may be able to acquire Jarrett Patterson for a 2027 pick if they don't want to give up one of their four fourth-rounders this year."
49ers trade idea lands major improvement on O-line depth chart
Injuries have derailed a promising season for the 49ers more than once in the last decade. While overall team health is far from predictable, franchises can set themselves up for success in the case that a key starter goes down.
A trade for Patterson may not make headlines, but it could make a major difference in San Francisco's Super Bowl hopes in 2026.
Patterson played both center and guard for the Texans last season, so he could serve as a depth piece at all three interior offensive line spots. In his eight appearances in 2025, he did not give up any sacks and was only penalized once. That kind of reliability is exactly what teams look for in a backup on the offensive line.
San Francisco signed veteran guard Robert Jones in free agency to serve as depth on the interior offensive line. Still, Patterson would be an upgrade over Jones, who carries significant injury concerns with him. Even if both players are healthy, the Niners need multiple backups capable of filling in whenever necessary.
The 49ers could likely acquire Patterson for a late-round draft pick. As Moton mentions in his article, the Niners could send a 2027 selection if they're hesitant to give up any of their 2026 capital.
At that price, it's an easy decision to make. Patterson could solidify one of the most important units on the field without breaking the bank.