Ex-NFL OT critiques 49ers approach to offensive line drafting

Former NFL offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth has raised concerns about the San Francisco 49ers' strategy regarding their offensive line. According to Whitworth, the team's lack of investment in early-round draft picks for linemen suggests a lack of confidence in their ability to identify elite talent. Despite the current offensive line being ranked highly, the future is uncertain, particularly as star tackle Trent Williams nears the end of his career. The 49ers have not selected a lineman in the first or second round since 2021, relying instead on lower-round picks and free agents. Whitworth emphasizes the need for the team to develop young linemen as Williams' eventual replacement to maintain offensive success.

• 4:15 AMYahoo Sports — Ex-NFL OT says 49ers lack confidence in ability to draft key position