Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Former 49ers lineman calls out irony of praising 49ers stars while bashing O-line

Originally posted on 49ers Webzone | By David Bonilla | Last updated May 27, 2025 10:38 AM ET

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy recently praised his offensive line during an interview on KNBR, calling them "war daddies" and expressing complete confidence in the unit. The offensive line has long been a focal point of criticism from fans, many of whom hoped the team would address it more aggressively during the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the 49ers used only one selection on the offensive line, and that didn't come until the seventh round with the addition of guard Connor Colby.

Last week, former offensive lineman Jon Feliciano, who retired in February, shared some thoughts on social media. Based on how other outlets initially framed the post, I, like others, misinterpreted the intent behind his words. I apologize for contributing to the confusion. This article has since been updated better to reflect the more likely intent of his message.

"Everyone on the team are first ballet [sic] hall of famers to be able to have so much success in spite of that s----y OL," Feliciano wrote.

At first glance, this appeared to be a jab at the current 49ers offensive line. But read with a more sarcastic tone, it seems more likely that Feliciano was actually defending his former unit, highlighting the irony of media members praising the team's offensive playmakers while overlooking or criticizing the efforts of those in the trenches.

Feliciano had left the door open for a potential return upon announcing his retirement, should one of his former teams make a postseason push.

"I'll be ready for a playoff run in December if you need me," he wrote.

The veteran guard was placed on injured reserve on August 28, 2024, and did not return last season. His absence opened the door for rookie guard Dominick Puni, who quickly made a name for himself. Puni earned the highest Pro Football Focus grade (80.5) among all rookie offensive linemen in 2024, emerging as a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season.

Purdy, who recently signed a massive five-year extension, remains confident in the offensive line heading into the 2025 campaign.

"Those guys up front, I can tell you, they are war daddies," Purdy said. "Every single day, they're coming to work, getting better. I've got their back, they've got mine, and now we're going to be just fine. And these guys here have what it takes to have a successful season. Everybody's going to find out soon.

"So, I've got their backs, and it's nothing but love. And I really do believe in these guys. I'm not just saying that to say that. These guys have taken the next step this offseason, and we're all going to continue to grow together."

We'll soon find out whether Purdy is right about his offensive line, or if general manager John Lynch and the 49ers should have invested more heavily in protecting their high-priced franchise quarterback.

H/t to Nick San Miguel of Niner Noise for the find.

This article first appeared on 49ers Webzone and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: