NFL announces 49ers-Rams in Australia set for Sept. 10
“The 49ers will face the Rams on Thursday, September 10, at 5:35 p.m. PT (10:35 a.m. local time) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking a marquee global kickoff to the season.”
49ers mailbag: The massive draft prospect who could address both offensive line needs (Paywall) “Instead of just-signed Robert Jones, their not-so-scintillating top option at left guard, the 49ers could break in Proctor, who has bench-pressed 535 pounds (that’s
almost three Upton Stouts) and became the first prospect over 350 pounds to post a vertical jump more than 32 inches at the combine since at least 2023. About his 32.5-inch vertical: It matched or was better than the leaps of four wide receivers, who I won’t humiliate by calling them out by name.”
Raiders’ progress, Kyler Murray’s impact among biggest questions as free agency settles (Paywall)
“The 49ers made a flurry of smart, cost-effective acquisitions, starting with receiver Mike Evans, who took a significant pay cut to play for the 49ers. Slot receiver Christian Kirk also took a pay cut and should be a perfect fit in coach Kyle Shanahan’s system. Trading a third-round pick for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa gives them the pass-rushing, disruptive three-technique they’ve been missing. The defense should be significantly better with the return of several key players like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.
Offensively, Evans and Kirk should boost the passing game, but to get past the Seahawks and Rams, they must run the ball better. Both defenses want to live in sub personnel (five or more defensive backs) and play light boxes. We aren’t sure when tight end George Kittle, who tore an Achilles tendon in the divisional round, will be back, but his run blocking on the edge is vital to making the 49ers’ run game work. They signed guard Robert Jones, who was hurt last season, but even when he was healthy, he’s an average starter at best…..Without a doubt, Shanahan will make fixing the 49ers’ running game a major point of emphasis in training camp, but it still seems like they have to add a piece or two that can bolster the run. Do they look for an upgrade at guard or center in the draft?”
Former 49ers OL Ben Bartch signs with Lions
“Bartch entered the NFL as a fourth-round draft pick (116th overall) out of Saint John’s (MN) in 2020, selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars. He spent his first three-plus seasons in Jacksonville, appearing in 41 games before the 49ers signed him off the Jaguars’ practice squad on November 21, 2023.”
