The 49ers need to invest at least one pick at tackle, but they also need one for the interior. Jake Slaughter ticks all the boxes as a versatile interior player to help beef up the blocking.
The San Francisco 49ers did a good job in addressing some roster needs. They upgraded at wide receiver, linebacker and defensive tackle while also bringing in some key depth across the offensive line.
But depth across the offensive line isn't enough.
San Francisco obviously needs a successor at left tackle, a need that is well documented. But it also needs to invest a pick on the interior offensive line. Spencer Burford is gone, while Jake Brendel is at the end of his career and needs a heir.
Where the Niners could address this is with another Jake, as Jake Slaughter looms as a potential target as a strong Day 2 prospect.
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Slaughter was a team captain for Florida in 2025, giving up only one sack against a tough schedule and earning a second team All-American nod. He was a leader on the field for the Gators, and his play has him in solid Day 2 contention as a center that can also play guard. He's also adept at zone blocking, which fits into the 49ers system.
Slaughter is an accomplished pass-blocker who's NFL ready. He's a strong blocker with excellent technique who can identify defensive pass-rushing plays with impunity and uses a consistent pad level to stifle defenders. He's a durable and proven leader, starting every game in the last two seasons for Florida and handling the pre-snap calls for the Gators.
When it comes to run blocking, Slaughter is not quite at the same level. He's by no means awful, as he can generate some push and his strength can make him steer defenders out of the way. Where Slaughter can improve, however, is allowing some more patience in his game, teaching himself not to overextend on plays or rush to make a block.
That aside, though, the tools are all there to be a solid pro at the NFL level. He's a good size at 6-foot-5 and 303 pounds. Center is by far his best position, but he does have the capacity to play at guard.
From the Niners' perspective, Slaughter can be a Day 1 starter at guard, before moving to center when Brendel decides to move on from the NFL.
Interior lineman is not a sexy pick, but 49ers fans have been demanding some more investment with the blocking.
With a versatile player like Slaughter, it could be yet another piece to the puzzle as the Niners look to make a Super Bowl push in 2026.