Breaking down the 90 players on the 49ers offseason roster in 90 posts (over 90 or so days). Today is offensive lineman Mike Person.

The San Francisco 49ers could not have been happier with the production they got out of Mike Person in 2018. Person bounced between the Seattle Seahawks (2012-13), St. Louis Rams (2014), Atlanta Falcons (2015-16), Kansas City Chiefs (2016-17), and Indianapolis Colts (2017). During his career he has appeared in 43 games (18 starts). He appeared in 12 games in 2017 with the Colts. Having bounced around like that, the 49ers were likely expecting a backup performer, at best.

In 2018, Person showed the type of toughness and reliability you look for in an offensive lineman. He battled through a foot injury, and still managed to start all 16 games. Going from splitting first team reps with Joshua Garnett to starting every game speaks volumes about Person.

Person played right guard for all but 10 snaps in 2018. His positional versatility only helps the team, as he can slide over and play center in a pinch. While Person did give up his share of pressures, he surrendered only one sack all of 2018. His run blocking grades were below average according to PFF, but another year working with the same guys playing next to you should help the entire offense. Cohesion means a lot with regards to offensive line play.

Basic info

Age: 30(Birthday is June 17)

Experience: 8 accrued seasons

Height: 6’4

Weight: 300 lbs.

Cap Status

Signed a three year extension on March 4, 2019 worth $8.25 million. His 2019 cap hit is $2,750,000.

How he might improve in 2019

Person went from a utility player to a starter in a matter of months. His hard work paid off and Person was rewarded with a new contract. Person understands landmarks. When the 49ers run their “stretch zone” play, he does a really nice job of cutting off linebackers or reaching defensive lineman to open up a running lane. Person was very impressive at getting to the second level. That’s why he’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Where Person can improve on is when he is stationary. Too often in close quarters the defensive tackle would “out athlete” him and get past him. Whether that was in the run or pass game. Person can take his game to the next level if he eliminates that part of his game.

How he might regress in 2019

Kyle Shanahan’s scheme is built to hide the deficiencies. Getting the ball out quickly helps the offensive line. Person will regress if some of those pressures turn into sacks in 2019. In short yardage situations, Person can be better as well. He has to be if the 49ers are going to reach the next level. I do believe Jimmy Garoppolo being under center will help mask some issues, as will the group of running backs. There were some good sized holes to run through last year, but too often I’d see a running back miss the hole. Person had a few “WTF” plays during games where he would flat out whiff. That was a product of Person lunging. If that continues, he’ll regress.