The San Francisco 49ers' general manager, John Lynch, wanted to draft an offensive lineman early in the 2025 NFL Draft, but stated the picks did not fall that way. Lynch was hoping to get more protection for starting quarterback Brock Purdy.
Former Mr. Irrelevant Brock Purdy is still waiting on a new contract, but he wants to stay in San Francisco, and the organization wants him to stay.
During the 2025 NFL Draft, the 49ers focused on defense, spending six of 11 picks on the defensive side of the football. During the seventh round, the 49ers finally drafted an offensive lineman.
Giving the people what they want 👏 pic.twitter.com/jIITb3tGPN
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) April 26, 2025
Former Hawkeyes' big man Connor Colby is headed to the Bay after being selected with the No. 249 overall pick. Colby gives the 49ers much-needed depth on the offensive line, and his future (and former) teammate George Kittle LOVES it.
YES
— George Kittle (@gkittle46) April 26, 2025
In one word, Kittle summed up how hyped he was to team up with fellow Hawkeye Colby. Kittle was a fifth-round pick for the 49ers in 2017. Kittle has been a GREAT pick for the Niners, and they hope Colby is the same.
Colby appeared in 51 games (50 starts) for the Iowa Hawkeyes. He can play either guard spot or at the tackle position. In 2024, Colby earned First Team All-Big Ten honors.
The six-foot-six, 309-pound lineman can start immediately for the Niners, who are searching for help on the offensive line. The 49ers did not draft another offensive lineman and hope Colby is a home run.
If he can be half as good as fellow former Hawkeye Robert Gallery, the 49ers got a steal.