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The San Francisco 49ers bolstered their offensive tackle depth in free agency, but now they may be looking to do the same in the 2026 NFL draft.
University of Florida OT Austin Barber confirmed to Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo that he had a virtual pre-draft meeting with the 49ers.
If the 49ers are going to add an OT in the draft it would make sense for them to do so on Day 3 where Barber is projected to go.
It would also make sense for them to grab a player with starting experience at both tackle spots, which Barber does. He made 38 starts at Florida, including 33 on the left side and five on the right. Since he'd likely step in as a swing tackle option, that versatility is key. It also opens the door for him to develop into a long-term starter at either spot.
Barber is an intriguing prospect from a tools perspective. He measured in at 6-7, 318 pounds at the NFL combine with 33 1/8-inch arms. He put together an athletic showing at the combine as well with a 5.12 40-yard dash, a 32-inch vertical and 9-foot-3-inch broad jump.
Versatility and good movement skills are a nice foundation for an offensive tackle prospect. There may be work for Barber to do before becoming an NFL contributor, but after signing Vederian Lowe in free agency and bringing back Austen Pleasants the 49ers have the runway to allow Barber to come into his own before putting him into a larger role on the offensive line.
More 49ers: 2026 NFL draft prospect draws comparison to 49ers All-Pro
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Austin Barber, 49ers had virtual visit
Continue reading...
University of Florida OT Austin Barber confirmed to Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo that he had a virtual pre-draft meeting with the 49ers.
If the 49ers are going to add an OT in the draft it would make sense for them to do so on Day 3 where Barber is projected to go.
It would also make sense for them to grab a player with starting experience at both tackle spots, which Barber does. He made 38 starts at Florida, including 33 on the left side and five on the right. Since he'd likely step in as a swing tackle option, that versatility is key. It also opens the door for him to develop into a long-term starter at either spot.
Barber is an intriguing prospect from a tools perspective. He measured in at 6-7, 318 pounds at the NFL combine with 33 1/8-inch arms. He put together an athletic showing at the combine as well with a 5.12 40-yard dash, a 32-inch vertical and 9-foot-3-inch broad jump.
Versatility and good movement skills are a nice foundation for an offensive tackle prospect. There may be work for Barber to do before becoming an NFL contributor, but after signing Vederian Lowe in free agency and bringing back Austen Pleasants the 49ers have the runway to allow Barber to come into his own before putting him into a larger role on the offensive line.
More 49ers: 2026 NFL draft prospect draws comparison to 49ers All-Pro
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 2026 NFL draft: Austin Barber, 49ers had virtual visit
Continue reading...
