Niners Nation
The Niners have a couple of big needs to address this offseason.
Fresh off a disappointing 6-11 season in 2024, the San Francisco 49ers are poised for a bounce-back year, but they have a few holes to address on their current roster, namely the offensive and defensive lines.
San Francisco’s offensive line didn’t see great play from their left guard and center, as they struggled to run the football efficiently, while Brock Purdy had his roughest year to date with a depleted core due to injuries.
On the other side, the team’s defensive line was at the core of the team’s issues on that side of the ball, as they couldn’t create enough pressure, while struggling to stop the run, leading to the firing of defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen.
So, is the offensive line or the defensive line a bigger need for the 49ers this offseason?
Let’s start with the offensive line. As mentioned above, the 49ers struggled at left guard and center with Aaron Banks and Jake Brendel, respectively. Both players could be replaced this offseason, as the former is set to be a free agent and could get a bigger deal in free agency, while the team could seek an upgrade for the latter, be it in the draft or free agency.
Then comes the age of star left tackle Trent Williams, who is nearing retirement. Williams hasn’t played a full season since 2013, and saw action in just 10 games this season while dealing with various injuries. Being that he plays arguably the second-most important position in football, San Francisco could look for his replacement in the draft this offseason, potentially even at No. 11.
Right guard Dominick Puni seems like the only staple that is guaranteed to be a starter next year, but you can assume that Colton McKivitz will man a starting spot in 2025 as well after getting a one-year extension last offseason. The 49ers have options though, as McKivitz could be kicked in to play guard if the team finds a future tackle that starts on the right side, or he can return to play right tackle.
Nonetheless, the 49ers have some questions to answer along the offensive line at multiple spots, which could be a big part of their strategy heading into the offseason.
Looking at the defensive line, the 49ers may need three new starters in 2025, but moreover, they need solutions for the future. San Francisco doesn’t have a building block at defensive tackle, with Maliek Collins on an expiring contract being the team’s top returner.
With Robert Saleh coming into the fold as the defensive coordinator, getting pieces up the middle will be extremely important for stopping the run. San Francisco could also look to go younger and add more stability at the edge spot opposite Nick Bosa.
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