yahoo
The San Francisco 49ers have opened the 2026 campaign with a 4-0 record, and the play of their offensive line has emerged as a quiet catalyst behind the team's early offensive success. Through four contests, quarterback Brock Purdy has not been sacked once, a testament to the protection provided by the front five. San Francisco has amassed 1,556 total yards and scored 16 touchdowns during that span.
On the ground, the 49ers have compiled 549 rushing yards on 115 carries, averaging 4.8 yards per attempt. General manager John Lynch attributes the improvement to a collective effort rather than the work of a single player.
"I think our offensive line has elevated their game," Lynch said during an appearance on KNBR.
The group has benefited from continuity, with Trent Williams at left tackle, Connor Colby at left guard, Jake Brendel at center, Dominick Puni at right guard, and Colton McKivitz at right tackle listed as the starters on the depth chart. Williams, in particular, continues to impress Lynch.
"Some guys are different," Lynch said. "He is different."
The offensive line has also afforded the passing game ample time to develop, with Evans, Kittle, and Deebo Samuel combining for 614 receiving yards over the first four games.
Lynch, however, was careful not to credit the offensive line alone for the absence of sacks. He pointed to the entire offense's ability to stay on schedule.
"It's collective. It's the run game. It's third downs," Lynch said. "It's Brock getting the ball out. It's our receivers being where they need to be."
As the team prepares to face Seattle while riding a 4-0 start, Lynch believes the offensive line's development could be one of the primary reasons the 49ers are positioned to sustain their early momentum.
Originally reported by yahoo.