3. Joe Thuney

The 49ers have a solid offensive line and it was bolstered during the draft when they traded for Trent Williams. This is a team that likes to run the ball so having a dominant offensive line is a must, not to mention it keeps Jimmy Garoppolo healthy.

Joe Thuney is a name to keep an eye on. The 27-year old guard signed the franchise tag with the New England Patriots that will pay him $14.8 million in 2020. He has spent the first four years of his career in New England and has started every game since entering the league.

The 49ers have Laken Tomlinson at the left guard spot currently. He is a solid option but it is important to look at the offensive line as a whole. San Francisco will have four offensive lineman hit free agency in 2021. Williams and Daniel Brunskill are two starters that will be available. Tom Cmpton and Ben Garland, who both signed one-year deals with the Niners this offseason, will also be free agents.

If San Francisco wants to seriously improve their line in 2021, Thuney is a player that could do that immediately. He is in line to receive a big contract but the Niners could save $5 million if they decide to cut Tomlinson and upgrade at the position.