San Francisco 49ers fans probably didn't notice (or at least paid little attention to) their favorite team picking up free-agent offensive lineman Vederian Lowe during the offseason.
After all, when comping the Lowe pickup to that of future Hall of Fame wide receiver Mike Evans, it's understandable why the former would garner next to zero attention. Backup offensive linemen don't exactly move the needle.
But it's bluntly clear the Niners' plan for the 27-year-old Lowe. He'll be San Francisco's primary reserve at offensive tackle, the swing option to support both Trent Williams and Colton McKivitz.
Sure, the 49ers used two picks in last April's NFL Draft on rookie linemen, Carver Willis and Enrique Cruz Jr. But rather than entrust a key backup job to two first-year players, the decision to go with a seasoned veteran makes considerably more sense.
Besides, the Niners are paying Lowe that kind of money, too.
Vederian Lowe is all but guaranteed to be 49ers' swing tackle
Lowe is far from being just an offseason camp body to spark competition. The Niners inked him to a two-year deal worth up to $9.25 million, $5.75 million of which is fully guaranteed. Right there, that's an indicator the reserve lineman is going to make San Francisco's 53-man roster.
And it's a likable option, too. After spending his first four years with the New England Patriots, the 2022 sixth-round draftee enters the fray with 46 games under his belt, 25 of them starts. And our friends over at FanSided's Pats site, Musket Fire, pointed out how Lowe is a "suitable backup" and New England's fanbase "wanted him back in 2026" in that role again.
According to Pro Football Focus, Lowe allowed one sack on 317 offensive snaps a year ago, ultimately receiving a decent 61.4 overall grade.
Granted, the 49ers aren't eying Lowe to see a substantial number of snaps. But with Williams turning age 38 this offseason and regularly missing at least a game or two every season because of injuries, it wouldn't be a shock to see the former get a start here there when needed.
And it's pretty obvious that's the Niners' intent with Lowe.
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