49ers Face Offensive Line Crisis as Bartch Heads to Injured Reserve
The San Francisco 49ers are grappling with a significant setback on their offensive line. Starting left guard Ben Bartch has been placed on injured reserve following a high-ankle sprain sustained during the team’s narrow 26-21 victory over the New Orleans Saints. While this move does not signal the end of his season, it mandates that Bartch will be sidelined for at least the next four games.
Concerns About Bartch’s Durability
Bartch’s injury raises pressing concerns for the 49ers. Even when he returns, his track record suggests he may not be able to maintain a consistent presence on the field. Last season, he served as the backup left guard behind Aaron Banks, who was a solid performer that the Green Bay Packers recently signed for a hefty $19 million per season. The 49ers opted against matching that deal, instead extending Bartch on a one-year contract, hoping he could step up.
Drafted in the fourth round, Bartch has demonstrated promise but has struggled with injuries throughout his career. In the 2024 season, he started two games when Banks was unavailable, only to suffer a season-ending injury in his second start. This history of injuries has led many to question whether the 49ers should have relied on him for this critical position.
A New Face in the Lineup
With Bartch out, rookie Connor Colby, a seventh-round pick, has taken over the left guard position. Colby stepped in admirably after Bartch’s exit against the Saints, but he faces the daunting task of proving himself amid the challenges of an NFL season. If Colby falters or faces his own injury issues, the team will be left with undrafted rookie Drew Moss as the next option, further highlighting the precarious state of the 49ers’ offensive line depth.
The Importance of Protection for Purdy
The 49ers’ decision to invest minimally in their offensive line raises eyebrows, especially given the substantial contract given to quarterback Brock Purdy, who is now earning $53 million per season. Protecting a high-profile player like Purdy is paramount, yet the team’s strategic choices may leave him vulnerable. After scrambling to escape pressure in the pocket during Week 1, Purdy has already shown signs of wear, amplifying the urgency for the 49ers to solidify their line.
If Colby can sustain his performance and remain healthy, it is likely he will retain the starting role due to Bartch’s unpredictable availability. The need for continuity along the offensive line is crucial for any quarterback’s success. However, the 49ers may find themselves regretting their decision to wait until the seventh round to draft an offensive lineman, especially considering the position has been a persistent weakness for the franchise over the past decade.
As the 49ers move forward, the focus will be on ensuring that their offensive line can provide the necessary support for Purdy and the offensive unit as they strive for success in the remainder of the season.
