Joey Fisher has talent, but must improve to stick with 49ers

Joey Fisher might be the only rookie offensive lineman on the 49ers who could play tackle in the NFL, but he has to drastically improve his motor to have a shot.

Welcome to another article ofThe Undrafted Corner, taking a look at the San Francisco 49ers'undrafted free-agent class from 2023 and what they need to do to make the final roster and be the latest gem on a squad that's seen a lot of talent from later rounds and the undrafted ranks make big contributions.

Read More: Ilm Manning brings experience, needs technique to stick with 49ers


We finish our look at the offensive side of the ball with offensive lineman Joey Fisher from Shepherd. The small-school standout could potentially be a factor at right tackle down the line if the 49ers need it, and he has the potential to be an intriguing player to watch.

However, with a poor start to his Niners tenure, being unable to finish practices at the rookie minicamp, he has some ground to make up to improve his conditioning to make it on the field.

Small-school prospects are always interesting when it comes to UDFA signings because there's always the exciting chance someone fell through the cracks. This is especially true of the offensive line, which isn’t exactly a sexy position for fans and reporters, and so a lot of the prospects who aren't blue-chips do.

Fisher measured in at 6-foot-4 and 296 pounds, and at 25 years of age, he's unlikely to be able to add more weight to his frame. This will make him either an undersized right tackle or a guard in the NFL, but he has good strength for the NFL and is already an excellent asset in the running game with his ability to blast open running lanes.

Fisher will need some development when it comes to pass protection. While he has a good arm length to keep defenders at bay, his lateral movement is only average and his pad level is often too high and can allow savvy defenders to get under his punch technique. If he can get his hands on the defender they more often than not will not get free, but he has to make sure he hones his technique as he'll miss a lot more often against defenders in the NFL with his current technique.

Fisher brings a lot to the table as a developmental prospect, but the 49ers will need to see him make major inroads in both pass protection and his stamina before he's ready to get onto the field for the red and gold.