The San Francisco 49ers have reportedly signed veteran guard Robert Jones, who is expected to compete for the starting left guard job. However, one analyst believes the team should continue addressing the position next to future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams.
Moe Moton of Bleacher Report suggests the 49ers could benefit from trading for Jarrett Patterson of the Houston Texans. Patterson has primarily played center during his NFL career but logged six games—with five starts—at left guard in 2025.
Moton points to San Francisco's aging roster, and Patterson is just 26 years old as he enters his fourth NFL season. He also views Patterson as a potential upgrade over Jones, who missed the entire 2025 season, and second-year lineman Connor Colby.
The 49ers currently hold just six selections in the 2026 NFL Draft and may be hesitant to part with any, given multiple depth needs across the roster. However, Moton believes a deal for Patterson might not require significant draft capital.
"San Francisco should reach out to the Houston Texans, who signed three-time Pro Bowl guard Wyatt Teller," Moton wrote. "The 49ers may be able to acquire Jarrett Patterson for a 2027 pick if they don't want to give up one of their four fourth-rounders this year.
"In 2025, Patterson transitioned from center to left guard, starting in five out of 17 outings. He allowed zero sacks while on the field for 206 pass-blocking snaps, per Pro Football Focus."
While the lack of sack numbers is encouraging, Patterson's overall grades were more modest. He posted a 64.6 pass-blocking grade, a 55.4 run-blocking grade, and a 60.1 overall offensive grade across 409 total snaps last season.
Still, there may be untapped upside in the 6-foot-5, 310-pound lineman.
"The 26-year-old only has a small sample size of snaps at left guard in the pros, but he also played the position in his final collegiate term at Notre Dame," Moton added. "He has enough experience to carve out a starting role with a change of scenery."
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