Don’t forget about the offensive line: Draft Profile on Chris Lindstrom of Boston College

Today we take a closer look at one of the top Guards in the 2019 NFL Draft, Chris Lindstrom of Boston College.

Greetings Faithful! We are knocking on the door of the 2019 NFL Draft! Before you realize it all of the mock drafts, rumors, and speculation that we all love and can’t get enough of will sadly end on Sunday…That is until the first mock draft for 2020 is released first thing Monday morning! It is clear that this draft will be John Lynch’s most critical one yet. The San Francisco 49ers must come away with impact players who can continue and help point the team in the right direction. Games are won on the line of scrimmage, and while we have discussed many defensive line prospects, I am going to discuss an offensive line prospect who can protect our 135-million-dollar quarterback. Today, the spotlight is on Chris Lindstrom.

Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images

Last season the 49ers selected tackle Mike McGlinchey and the result has been a positive one, and McGlinchey has the looks of a future pro bowl talent on the line. Today, we are going to discuss how Chris Lindstrom can be a nice fit along the 49ers offensive line and offer the protection and blocking needed to protect Jimmy Garoppolo.

Combine Results:

40 Yard Dash: 4.91
Bench Press: 21 Reps
Vertical Jump: 30.5”
Broad Jump: 117.0”
3 Cone Drill: 7.61
20 Yard Shuttle: 4.54

Measurables:

Height: 6’4”
Weight: 308 lbs.
Hands: 9 ½”
Arms: 34 1/8”

Summary:

In 2018 you could have found one of the most consistent offensive linemen at Boston College in Chris Lindstrom. The guard has produced positive production and results for the Eagles this season. On tape, Lindstrom has demonstrated his ability to be a consistent blocker up front. This includes positive production in both running and passing plays. Lindstrom has strong, reliable hands, when blocking in one to one match-ups with oncoming pass rushers. Lindstrom maintains great leverage against defenders, utilizing a blend of upper and lower body strength. Lindstrom has good speed, and trusts his feet to keep himself upright and balanced. Lindstrom has desirable size and measurables for the position at the next level. He plays stronger as the game continues on. There have been some whispers about Lindstrom potentially being a tackle, however guard is his more natural position, and the position I see him best at the pro level. Where Lindstrom seems to be getting most of his praise is his ability as a blocker on passing downs. Lindstrom is looking like a day two prospect somewhere in the second round. In a pass-happy league where protecting the quarterback means everything, Lindstrom carries a lot of value heading into the 2019 NFL Draft.

Is Chris Lindstrom a fit for the 49ers?

It would be wise of the San Francisco 49er to continue to address and invest in young talent along the offensive line. The team hit it out of the park last season with McGlinchey and why not look to bolster the line with more high-end talent. Lindstrom is one of the best guard prospects this draft class has to offer. His abilities to protect and block in both running and passing downs only increases his value. Lindstrom has the potential to be a three-down starter at the next level. Sure, there might be some growing pains in the beginning, but the ceiling is high, and the offensive line will see in upgrade in talent. With Lindstrom and McGlinchey in the fold and Joe Staley providing that strong veteran presence the offensive line in due time could be one of the stronger units on the team sooner rather than later. If the 49ers have their sights set on Lindstrom then they will most likely have to select him in the second round. That means either at their current spot (36^th Overall) or a possible trade back. Guard selections don’t win on the night of the draft like receivers but they certainly will win you football games in the long run.

What are YOUR thoughts on Chris Lindstrom? How do you feel about the 49ers offensive line as it currently stands? Would you consider selecting Lindstrom in the second round of the draft? Please share in the comments below!