Without an offensive lineman, the San Francisco 49ers entered the NFL Draft. No player, in their opinion, was prepared to compete or possibly even start right immediately.
On Tuesday morning, the Niners added a veteran option. Chris Hubbard, an offensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans who started nine games last season before going on injured reserve, is being signed by the 49ers, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Swing tackle money goes to Hubbard, who inked a $1.375 million, one-year contract.
The 33-year-old last participated in ten or more games in 2019, while he was a member of the Cleveland Browns. Hubbard’s blown block percentage from the previous season was 3.2 percent, less than that of 49ers right tackle Colton McKivitz (4 percent). In addition, Hubbard did not commit any penalties; but, he did permit four sacks.
Hubbard, McKivitz, Jaylon Moore, and Brandon Parker are the players vying for the position of right tackle. Additionally, this strengthens Dominck Puni’s position at guard inside.
Over the course of ten years, Hubbard has started fifty-eight games. He played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for four years and the Browns for five. Given that he missed the second part of 2023 due to an injury that ended his season, his contract can be seen as a “prove it” opportunity. However, his background suggests he can provide some much-needed opposition for McKivitz.