Kyle Shanahan discusses 49ers' draft strategy for offensive linemen

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 3, 2026, 7:01 PM

Last updated Oct 3, 2026

Kyle Shanahan discusses 49ers' draft strategy for offensive linemen
Summary

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan explained his team's approach to drafting offensive linemen, emphasizing the preference for Day 2 and Day 3 picks. He noted that the team hasn't selected a lineman in the first two rounds since 2021, preferring to focus resources on positions that provide more immediate scoring potential. Shanahan has confidence in offensive line coach Chris Foerster's ability to develop talent, but he stressed the need to find the right players at the right value. He indicated that the decision often hinges on comparing available linemen to those projected to be selected later in the draft, making skill position players a priority.

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By the Numbers
  • •Shanahan prefers Day 2 and Day 3 offensive lineman picks.
  • •Last first or second-round lineman pick was in 2021.
  • •Coaching staff collaborates to identify suitable linemen.
  • •Shanahan values skill positions for scoring ability.
  • •Team's needs dictate draft decisions, not conventional wisdom.
Latest Updates
  • 7:01 PMYahoo Sports — Kyle Shanahan explains why 49ers rarely draft offensive linemen early
What they're saying
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The 49ers have faith in their coaching that they can develop linemen drafted anywhere.

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