NFL Free Agency Primer: Mike McGlinchey

The regular season has come to a close, and most teams have already begun the complicated process of preparing for the 2023 season. As the new league year approaches, we'll be covering the impending free agents most capable of shifting the balance of power in the NFL.

The Player: Mike McGlinchey

San Francisco 49ers tackle Mike McGlinchey has kept a relatively low profile since entering the league as the ninth overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, but sometimes that's a good thing for an offensive lineman. The 6-8, 310lb mountain of a man has started 69 of a possible 82 regular season games and blocked for two teams that finished fifth or better in yards gained. Though never a star or Pro Bowler, he has earned above-average Pro Football Focus grades in all five of his seasons.

The Fit:

McGlinchey is a versatile, overpowering offensive lineman best suited to the right side. He has been a big part of consistently effective run games for the 49ers and would be a strong fit for a team that's looking to take a balanced approach on offense. Any team with a star running back in place and a quarterback in need of improved pass protection would be wise to target him.

The Cost:

The 49ers liked McGlinchey enough to activate his $10.88 million fifth-year option for the 2022 season, so they could consider putting the franchise tag on him this offseason. If they decide $18.44 million for one year is too steep a price to pay, he'd still likely flirt with that number in annual average in unrestricted free agency. Fellow 2018 draft picks and right tackles Braden Smith and Brian O'Neill have already signed deals in excess of $17.5 million per year; McGlinchey should approach a comparable number.

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