Power ranking each 49ers position group entering Week 1 of 2023 season

No. 6: Offensive Line

The 49ers offensive line is one superstar, a few solid players, an unknown, and then backups who really aren't up to snuff. Given the importance of everyone on the line, though, it drags down a position group that boasts arguably the best player in the NFL.

Much has been said about Trent Williams, who is polishing a surefire Hall of Fame resume at left tackle following a career resurgence with San Francisco. Williams is a freak athlete and a phenomenal technician on the blind side, with a level of play almost impossible to match from anyone else. The only snag with Williams is his injury history. He has not been able to play through a full season as a 49er, though with how well he plays, that's a trade the Niners are always willing to make.

The 49ers guards are more solid than spectacular, but there is considerable upside there. Aaron Banks put forth a great year in his first time as a starter, and there is obvious upside as he continues to hone and shape his technique. Spencer Burford has come into training camp in better shape as he looks to fully control the starting right guard position, and Jake Brendel played adequately in his first season as a starter.

There's nothing spectacular here, but everything is solid.

Colton McKivitz has been given the starting right tackle position without a competition, and though he acquitted himself well when Mike McGlinchey was injured the last couple of years, there is no guarantee he will be able to handle a starting position. It is a big unknown on the offensive line, but there is no reason to assume McKivitz will falter.

Things change, though, when we enter the backups. Jon Feliciano did not play well in training camp, and he will be tasked with filling in if any of the starters get hurt. There is Nick Zakelj, who frankly played his way off the roster but was still given a spot due to concerns he would be claimed by other teams on waivers. Both Jaylon Moore and Matt Pryor are underwhelming swing tackle options, though Moore put together a fantastic final preseason game to assure himself a roster spot.

There is considerably less depth on the offensive line, and given the propensity for injury for the position, that's a big deal.