2026 NFL Draft outlook: 49ers in play to add offensive lineman with early picks

The philosophy is nothing new to the 49ers.Legendary coach Bill Walsh regularly eschewed offensive linemen in the first round of the NFL draft.Only once in Walsh’s nine seasons as head coach did the 49ers select an offensive lineman in the first round. That was right tackle Harris Barton at No. 22 overall in 1987.In nine previous drafts conducted by general manager John Lynch and coach Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers have chosen one offensive lineman in Round 1. That was right tackle Mike McGlinchey at No. 9 in 2018.As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the 49ers appear to be in play to add to their offensive line with one of their top-two selections.Currently, they have no clear-cut starter at left guard. And it will not be long before they need a left tackle to replace Trent Williams, who turns 38 in July.The remainder of the 49ers’ offensive line is set with right tackle Colton McKivitz, right guard Dominick Puni and center Jake Brendel.The 49ers were tied for the fifth-fewest sacks allowed last season. Their run game averaged just 3.8 yards per carry, the lowest average in Shanahan’s tenure.When asked recently about the reasons for the 49ers producing fewer explosive...