The San Francisco 49ers are facing an uphill battle to secure a spot in the NFC playoffs. Trailing two games behind the division leader, the team’s postseason hopes are slim. According to NFL.com, their chances of making the playoffs currently stand at just eight percent.
A loss to the Los Angeles Rams this Thursday would all but eliminate San Francisco’s playoff hopes and shift the conversation toward offseason plans.
One analyst has predicted that the 49ers may lose a key piece of their offensive line to a division rival in free agency.
Cardinals Targeting 49ers’ Former 2nd-Round Pick
Matt Holder of Bleacher Report suggests the Arizona Cardinals should pursue 49ers offensive lineman Aaron Banks, a former second-round pick in the 2021 draft, during the upcoming offseason. The Cardinals could experience significant turnover on their offensive line, with starting guards Will Hernandez and Evan Brown, as well as reserve Trystan Colon, set to hit free agency.
“Arizona has several impending free agents on the interior offensive line, including starting guards Will Hernandez and Evan Brown in addition to Trystan Colon, who has been filling in for Hernandez after the latter’s injury,” Holder explained.
Banks would be a major upgrade for Arizona’s offensive line. According to Pro Football Focus, his 71.3 run-blocking grade leads all current Cardinals linemen, and his pass-blocking performance would be an improvement over current right guard Isaiah Adams.
Holder also noted that signing Banks, who has allowed just one sack all season, would not only improve Arizona’s line but also deliver a blow to the 49ers.
If the Cardinals do secure Banks, it would leave a notable void in the 49ers’ offensive line. While they still have left tackle Trent Williams anchoring the unit, the team would need to find a replacement for a key starter over the past three seasons.
Options to Replace Banks
The 49ers could explore internal options to fill the left guard spot. Former fifth-round pick Spencer Burford moved from right guard to left guard during the offseason and has expressed feeling more comfortable on that side.
Currently serving as a reserve, Burford has improved his pass-blocking grade to a career-best 70.6, according to Pro Football Focus. However, his struggles with run blocking this season might give the team pause. Last year, Burford posted an above-average run-blocking grade over 410 snaps, which could provide some reassurance.
Another option is Ben Bartch, though his availability is uncertain after a season-ending injury sustained in the win against the Bears on Sunday. Despite limited playing time, Bartch impressed in 65 offensive snaps, earning the team’s third-highest blocking grade and posting a 70-plus grade in both pass and run blocking.
San Francisco could also consider drafting a replacement for Banks.
The team’s recent success in the draft, such as selecting Dominick Puni in the third round last year, supports this approach. Puni, the team’s second-highest-graded offensive lineman this season, has solidified the right guard position and could inspire confidence in drafting another starter.
What’s Next for Banks?
The 49ers have yet to confirm whether they will pursue re-signing Banks this offseason. If they choose not to, he will become an unrestricted free agent, free to sign with any team.
