The San Francisco 49ers are widely expected to address their offensive line this offseason, with many analysts projecting the team to invest a premium draft pick in the unit. However, ESPN analyst Matt Bowen believes part of the solution could come through NFL free agency.
Bowen evaluated the top 50 impending free agents and identified ideal team fits for each. He named the 49ers as a strong landing spot for veteran guard Isaac Seumalo, a former third-round pick who spent seven seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles before signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023.
"Improving the interior of the offensive line is a must for Kyle Shanahan's offense," Bowen wrote. "Seumalo can displace defenders in both zone and gap run concepts, plus he would keep the pocket firm in pass pro for quarterback Brock Purdy."
Seumalo (6-4, 303) brings significant NFL experience, appearing in 125 games with 104 starts, including 14 starts for Pittsburgh in 2025. According to Pro Football Focus, he has earned at least a 73.3 offensive grade in four of his last five seasons. In 2025, he posted a 76.4 pass-blocking grade and a 67.1 run-blocking grade.
"The 10-year veteran has the foot quickness to redirect defenders and the body control to wrestle back against power rushers," Bowen added. "Seumalo's 97.3% pass rush win rate with the Steelers this season ranked second among 65 qualifying guards, and his 76.9% run block win rate checked in at fourth."
While the 49ers believe they have their right guard of the future in Dominick Puni, the left guard position remains unsettled. Seumalo has primarily played left guard over the past three seasons in Pittsburgh and for most of his tenure in Philadelphia, making him a logical fit—even if it's just for the short term—at that spot within San Francisco's offense.
The question is how much the 49ers are willing to invest in the spot. Spotrac lists Seumalo's annual market value at around $9.6 million, projecting a three-year, $28.8 million deal for the veteran offensive lineman.
Bowen also identified a potential landing spot for 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings, naming the Carolina Panthers as his best fit.
"The 49ers' top WR in 2025 can use his 6-foot-3, 212-pound frame and route-running skills to make himself available to quarterback Bryce Young, especially in critical down-and-distance situations," Bowen noted. "Plus, with Jennings joining Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker, the Panthers would have a versatile receiving group that can work every level of the field."
Comments