Don’t be shocked that San Francisco 49ers fourth-round pick offensive tackle Carver Willis may be kept far away from the position in the pros. He isn’t. He’s known since college.
“Any talks about the NFL have never involved tackle,” Willis said when meeting with the media during the 49ers’ rookie minicamp. “Ever. Even with coaches in college, it just hasn’t involved left tackle.”
The moment his name was called in the 2026 NFL Draft, Willis was speculated as a possible candidate for the 49ers’ left guard spot.
This means Willis’ future involves the inside. Maybe at center, or maybe he’s another competitor for left guard.
“For me, it wasn’t exactly much of a shock,” Willis said. “They said, ‘hey we want you to play inside.’ I was like, ‘great’”.
The 49ers signed right tackle Colton McKivitz in the 2026 offseason to a three-year, $45 million deal. Barring an injury disaster or the rookie Willis going lights out in his first training camp, the contract indicates right tackle is locked down for 2026. Trent Williams will have left tackle after the 49ers locked him up in an extension as well.
49ers starting right guard Dominick Puni played college football at tackle, but became the 49ers’ starting guard almost immediately. Puni did play six years in college, so experience helps, but he’s a good example of a college tackle moving inside at guard successfully. As for left guard? That’s anyone’s guess.
For left guard, the 49ers have options. They signed both Brett Toth and Robert Jones to one-year deals at $2.5 million and $1.75 million, respectively. Given a single year and the low amount committed, this is not a long-term answer. They also have Connor Colby coming for his second year. While Colby’s rookie season was underwhelming, maybe the experience sets him up for a massive leap in Year 2.
Willis noted that he considers himself an offensive lineman, not just a tackle. In addition to his understanding of playing guard, Willis also noted he’s working on snapping the ball for proficiency to play center if needed. That’s useful since Jake Brendal will be a free agent after the 2026 season.
“It’s wherever they need me,” Willis said, elaborating on his preparation.
Of course, he could always find himself at tackle again. The 49ers are no strangers to injuries. Willis isn’t set on the idea and has accepted that tackle may not be in his professional football future.
“I call it winning the genetic lottery. I didn’t.”
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