New England Patriots receive high grades in 2018 NFL Draft first round
San Francisco 49ers No. 9: Notre Dame OT, Mike McGlinchey
The San Francisco 49ers are going to be one of the most interesting teams to watch next season after a great finish to the 2017 season. Before the trade deadline last year, the 49ers were able to add Jimmy Garoppolo in a trade with the New England Patriots. Considering what Garoppolo was able to accomplish with the 49ers, the team got a steal only having to part ways with a second round pick for him.
This offseason, the 49ers committed to Garoppolo long-term with a big contract. With Garoppolo under center last season, the 49ers didn’t lose a game. While that likely won’t be the case this season, he has provided them with the franchise quarterback that they needed.
With the ninth overall pick, the 49ers helped Garoppolo out some, as they selected one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL Draft from Notre Dame. The selection of Mike McGlinchey instantly boosts the 49ers’ offensive line.
At Notre Dame, McGlinchey played both right and left tackle, which will make where he plays in the NFL a bit interesting. However, the 49ers using the ninth pick on him likely indicates that he will be on the left side. This pick fills a need for the 49ers and McGlinchey is a great player. However, this might have been a slight reach.