The 49ers added a late-round offensive tackle with their 187th overall pick where they selected Fordham offensive tackle Nick Zakelj (zah-KELL). San Francisco acquired the 2022 sixth-round selection last year when they dealt LB Jonas Griffith to Denver.
Zakelj brings a ton of experience at left tackle where he was a five-year starter in college. At 6-6, 316 pounds he has the size to stick in the NFL. He’s also a very good athlete and it wouldn’t be a surprise if the 49ers tried moving him inside.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. pointed to pad level as a problem with Zakelj, but that’s something an NFL coaching staff can correct.
Whether he sticks at tackle or moves inside, there’ll be a role for Zakelj if he impresses in camp. If he hits his ceiling there’s a chance he winds up sticking as a long-term option at right tackle if the team isn’t happy with Mike McGlinchey. That’s a ways off from coming into the picture though.
For now he’ll compete for a reserve OL job and has a real shot to make the active roster in Year 1.
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