49ers Sign Key Offensive Lineman for 2025 Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Timm Hamm | Last updated Feb 24, 2025 3:55 PM ET

The San Francisco 49ers have solidified at least one position for 2025 before free agency arrives.

No, not the one we're all hoping for as Brock Purdy remains unsigned, but at least the offensive line in front of him is still at least partially intact.

On Monday, the 49ers announced they've struck a one-year deal to keep guard Ben Bartch in San Francisco.

Bartch came to the Niners in 2023 via the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad. The Jags drafted him in 2020 in the fourth round out of Saint John's.

He started 20 games for the Jaguars in 41 appearances and played eight games with two starts in San Francisco.

The 49ers are also watching left guard Aaron Banks, who is set to become a free agent next month. If he leaves town, Bartch could be a possible replacement.

The 49ers are coming off a disappointing season that saw a last-place finish in the division and an early end to the season with no playoff berth.

As the offseason commences, Purdy will be priority No. 1 in San Francisco, but general manager John Lynch will have to pay attention to the rest of the roster too.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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