Will the 49ers Finally Replace Center Jake Brendel This Offseason?

Aging Veteran or Still a Key Piece?

The San Francisco 49ers have made it clear that they want to get younger and more cost-efficient across the roster. With that in mind, one of the most obvious positions to upgrade is at center, where Jake Brendel is set to turn 33 before the start of the 2025 season.

Brendel has been a serviceable starter for the 49ers, but his play has steadily declined. Last season, he ranked 23rd among NFL centers according to Pro Football Focus, with an even more concerning 51st ranking in pass protection out of 64 qualifying centers. While his run-blocking skills fit well in Kyle Shanahan’s outside-zone scheme, his struggles in pass protection could be a major liability moving forward.

A Run-Blocker Who Struggles in Pass Protection

Brendel’s athleticism makes him a strong asset in the running game. He is agile enough to get to the second level and take on linebackers, which is why Shanahan’s system has found some success with him at center. However, in passing situations, his weaknesses are glaring.

At under 300 pounds, Brendel often struggles to hold his ground against stronger defensive linemen. He frequently needs help in protection, which limits the team’s ability to handle blitzes and complex defensive fronts. Considering the 49ers’ ongoing issues with picking up third-down pressures, Brendel’s struggles at the line of scrimmage are becoming harder to ignore.

The Brock Purdy Factor

One of the biggest reasons why the 49ers may move on from Brendel is the changing nature of their offense. With quarterback Brock Purdy expected to receive a massive contract extension soon, the team will be relying more on his passing ability rather than just the ground game. That means they need a center who can hold up in pass protection, communicate effectively, and keep Purdy upright—something Brendel has not consistently done.

As Purdy’s importance grows, the need for a more reliable pass-protecting center becomes a necessity rather than a luxury. The 49ers cannot afford to have a weak link in the middle of their offensive line, especially as they shift toward a more balanced offensive approach.

The Competition for Brendel’s Job

The 49ers have already begun assembling potential replacements for Brendel. Matt Hennessy, Nick Zakelj, Drake Nugent, and potentially a rookie draft pick could all challenge him for the starting role in training camp. While Brendel has the experience, his hold on the starting job is far from secure.

With younger, more physical options waiting in the wings, San Francisco might be willing to make a bold move at center this offseason. A true competition for the position could be exactly what the 49ers need to solidify their offensive line for years to come.

A New Direction for the 49ers?

Brendel’s time in San Francisco may not be over just yet, but his role as the unquestioned starter is in serious jeopardy. If the 49ers are serious about protecting their franchise quarterback and building for the future, replacing Brendel with a younger, stronger, and more capable center in pass protection might be the right move.

Whether through free agency, the draft, or an internal promotion, the 49ers have options. This offseason could be the time when they finally make a change at one of the most important positions on the field.