Offensive linemen Ben Bartch and Spencer Burford are two of the 11 former San Francisco 49ers unrestricted free agents still on the market. Both players met with other NFL teams on Monday, according to the NFL transaction wire.
The Detroit Lions hosted Bartch, while the Los Angeles Chargers met with Burford. While it's unclear how strongly the 49ers are pursuing either player for 2026, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reported there is mutual interest in Bartch returning to San Francisco.
Of course, the 49ers appear content with allowing Bartch to test the free-agent market. Bartch and Burford both started at left guard for San Francisco last season. Bartch started the first two games while Burford made 11 starts, including the team's two playoff games.
The 49ers have already added to their offensive line in free agency, signing Vederian Lowe to a two-year deal and Brett Toth to a one-year contract.
Looking ahead, San Francisco is widely expected to address the offensive line in the 2026 NFL Draft. The contract standoff with left tackle Trent Williams could heighten the urgency to reinforce the line that protects quarterback Brock Purdy and opens running lanes for Christian McCaffrey.
Comments