In 2022, the Niners' offensive line ranked seventh in the league. They have since dropped 11 spots to No. 18. The unit lost its starting right tackle of the past five seasons. Mike McGlinchey signed with the Denver Broncos during the onset of free agency. Fourth-year player Colton McKivitz, who has started just five games, will replace him. The versatile Daniel Brunskill also departed, joining the Tennessee Titans.
"San Francisco's line ranked fifth in PFF pass-blocking efficiency over the 2022 season but lost two starters in the offseason," wrote Monson.
It's worth noting that Brunskill started only two games last season while appearing in 14. It's also worth noting that Monson lists Jon Feliciano as the projected starter at center. That job will likely remain with Jake Brendel, who started all 17 games last season.
The interior of the 49ers offensive line is often a cause for concern. Paired with uncertainty at right tackle, Pro Football Focus had no choice but to lower the unit's stock value. Analysts were shocked the team didn't add an offensive lineman or two in the draft.
The one player who saved San Francisco's offensive line from a more significant drop is veteran Trent Williams.
"Trent Williams finished as the best-graded tackle in the NFL for the third straight season," wrote Monson. "He is a future Hall of Famer and one of the best players in the game."
Williams is a two-time first-team All-Pro and 10-time Pro Bowl selection. He anchors one of the most critical spots on offense and is about as consistently superb at manning that spot as anyone in the game's history.
"If it wasn't for Trent Williams, this line would be a concerning group on paper," wrote Monson. "It still may need to lean on Kyle Shanahan's offense to put some gloss on its performances."
The good news is that San Francisco's offensive line is ranked as the best in the NFC West. The Los Angeles Rams came in at No. 28. The Seattle Seahawks sit at No. 30, followed by the Arizona Cardinals at No. 31.
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