49ers Receive Blunt Free Agent Message to Help Brock Purdy: Offensive Line a Priority for 2026

49ers’ Playoff Loss Highlights the Need for Offensive Line Upgrades

After their loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the divisional round of the NFC playoffs, the San Francisco 49ers are well aware of what they need to address heading into the 2026 offseason. While the team has a strong roster with a top-tier defense and skilled offensive playmakers, one glaring area of concern remains—the offensive line.

Quarterback Brock Purdy, who had a breakout year leading the Niners’ offense, was under pressure at times during the postseason, particularly in the loss to Seattle. While the 49ers can count on Trent Williams to protect Purdy’s blind side, Williams is a veteran who won’t be around forever. As the team looks to build a Super Bowl-caliber roster, adding another reliable offensive lineman to the mix should be a top priority.

Tyler Linderbaum: The Ideal Addition for the 49ers’ Offensive Line

NBC Sports Bay Area’s Bonta Hill recently sent a blunt message to the 49ers, urging them to do everything possible to sign Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum in free agency. Hill emphasized that Linderbaum, who will be available to test the open market in mid-March, could be the final piece that solidifies the Niners’ offensive line and gives Brock Purdy the protection he needs to thrive.

“The 49ers should do whatever they need to do to sign center Tyler Linderbaum,” Hill wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Jan. 26, calling for the Niners to be aggressive in securing one of the top offensive line talents available.

Why Linderbaum Could Be the Perfect Fit for San Francisco

Linderbaum’s potential departure from the Ravens has been a topic of discussion for some time. Despite his stellar play, Baltimore opted not to pick up Linderbaum’s fifth-year option, which has created uncertainty about his future with the team. The Ravens have expressed interest in extending the Pro Bowl center, but with the financial demands associated with retaining Linderbaum, it’s unclear if Baltimore will be able to keep him.

As one of the best centers in the league, Linderbaum is sure to attract significant interest from multiple teams. According to PFF’s Mason Cameron, Linderbaum’s status as the top free-agent offensive lineman this offseason could be especially enticing for teams like the 49ers, who are looking to add depth to their line. Cameron also mentioned that the Seattle Seahawks, another team with ample cap space, could be in the mix for Linderbaum, which could increase the competition for his services.

For the 49ers, Linderbaum’s skill set makes him an ideal addition. He is known for his exceptional run-blocking ability and his agility in pass protection, making him a perfect fit for the 49ers’ run-heavy offense. His presence in the middle of the offensive line could provide much-needed stability and allow the team to maintain their offensive balance. If the 49ers are serious about helping Brock Purdy succeed, adding a reliable center like Linderbaum would be a game-changer.

Steve Young Weighs In: Offensive Line Must Be Top 10 for Purdy’s Success

Former 49ers quarterback Steve Young also weighed in on the team’s need to improve the offensive line. During a Jan. 22 appearance on KNBR, Young emphasized that for Purdy to reach his full potential, the offensive line must be one of the best in the league.

“Well, every quarterback needs an offensive line, and they’ve got to be Top 10,” Young said. “With Trent [Williams] in the game, are they Top 10? I’d say it comes and goes. I thought they had some great games this year, but we need to get back to the 2019 offensive line, where we’re the best in the league or Top 3.”

Young’s analysis is telling—while the 49ers have some solid pieces in place, the offensive line has been inconsistent at times. Even with Williams providing elite protection, the Niners need to ensure that their entire line is performing at a high level to maximize Purdy’s potential.

Strengthening the Weapons Around Purdy: The Need for Balance

In addition to bolstering the offensive line, the 49ers also need to focus on improving the weapons around Brock Purdy. Christian McCaffrey has been a key contributor to the offense, but as Young pointed out, the 49ers cannot afford to lean too heavily on him. McCaffrey had an outstanding 2025 season, with 311 carries for 1,202 yards and 17 touchdowns in 17 games. But with the workload McCaffrey faces, especially as a dual-threat back who also contributes in the passing game, it’s crucial for the 49ers to find balance in their offense.

“We don’t need speed as much as other squads because we have a lot of tactics,” Young said. “But it can’t be the Christian McCaffrey show. We know that. That’s asking too much of Christian, way too much of Christian. I think it affects Christian’s running game. I don’t think we get the full measure of Christian as a runner when he has to do six other things.”

Young’s comments underscore the importance of diversifying the offense. While McCaffrey is an incredible talent, the 49ers need to ensure that Purdy has more options to rely on, especially if they want to avoid overworking McCaffrey and risking injury.

The 49ers’ Next Move: Do They Have Another Big Addition in Store?

The 49ers have made some notable moves this offseason, including bolstering their defense and adding depth at key positions. But the most important move might still lie ahead: signing a proven offensive lineman like Linderbaum. If the 49ers are serious about making a Super Bowl push, they need to solidify their offensive line and ensure that Brock Purdy has the protection he needs to execute the offense effectively.

If Linderbaum is unavailable, the 49ers could explore other free-agent options, such as veteran linemen like Zack Littell, Patrick Corbin, or even Max Scherzer if they decide to make a surprise move. Alternatively, the team could explore trade opportunities to add another key piece to their offensive line.

Final Thoughts: A Championship Window That Needs Protection

The 49ers are in the midst of a championship window, and their success in 2026 will hinge on their ability to protect Brock Purdy and give him the weapons he needs to succeed. A strong offensive line is crucial, and adding a player like Tyler Linderbaum could make all the difference in their pursuit of a Super Bowl. The 49ers have the talent in place, but they must ensure that their line is among the league’s best if they are to capitalize on their potential. With the right moves, San Francisco could be back in the NFC Championship picture once again.