3 Things the San Francisco 49ers need to address in 2022

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 30: Kyle Juszczyk #44 of the San Francisco 49ers checks on teammate Deebo Samuel #19 in the NFC Championship Game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on January 30, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 19: Laken Tomlinson #75 and Trent Williams #71 of the San Francisco 49ers block during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi’s Stadium on December 19, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. The 49ers defeated the Falcons 31-13. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) /

2. Fortify the offensive line

Following the retirement of sturdy left tackle Joe Staley, the Niners were looking for a suitable replacement. In 2020, general manager John Lynch dealt with the Washington Football Team and acquired perennial Pro Bowler Trent Williams.

He played and starter 14 games for the club a year ago and in 2021, was not only around for 15 contests but started all three postseason contests. The now nine-time Pro Bowler earned All-Pro honors in 2021 for the first time in his 11 NFL campaigns.

Along with rookie running back Elijah Mitchell, versatile wideout Deebo Samuel and an offensive front led by Williams and fellow Pro Bowler Laken Tomlinson, the 49ers improved from 15th in the league in rushing yards per game in 2020 (118.1 average) to seventh.

Kyle Shanahan’s club averaged nearly 10 more yards per game this past season, running for 127.4 yards per outing.

But what about 2022? Tomlinson and right tackle Tom Compton are slated to become unrestricted free agents. The latter made seven starts during the regular season and three more in the playoffs.

Jaylen Moore, a rookie in 2021, could be the heir apparent at a spot that had numerous starters this past season. But look for Lynch to make sure this unit it secure.