Here’s a bold statement: the San Francisco 49ers might be facing a critical decision that could reshape their offensive line—and it’s all because of a surprising waiver wire opportunity. Veteran offensive lineman Laken Tomlinson has been waived by the Houston Texans, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering: Should the 49ers take a chance on him after Ben Bartch’s season-ending injury? But here’s where it gets controversial: while Tomlinson’s name carries weight from his 2021 stint with the 49ers, his recent performance has left many questioning whether he’s still a viable option.
Let’s break it down. Tomlinson, now 33, was a starter for the Texans as recently as Week 9 but has since been a healthy scratch. Texans fans celebrated his departure on social media, a stark contrast to the 49ers fans who remember him fondly. And this is the part most people miss: despite his reputation as one of the most professional and likable players in the league, Tomlinson’s on-field production has declined significantly. According to Sports Info Solutions, his blown block rate is a concerning 4.1% in pass protection and 6.6% in run blocking—ranking him among the worst offensive linemen in the NFL.
So, why would the 49ers consider bringing him back? Well, with Bartch out, the team lacks veteran depth behind Spencer Burford. The only other interior options are Connor Colby and Nick Zakelj, neither of whom have Tomlinson’s experience. Here’s the kicker: while his stats suggest his tank might be empty, his familiarity with the team and ability to provide stability—something the 49ers’ left guard position has desperately needed this season—could make him an appealing option.
But let’s not sugarcoat it: this would be a lateral move with limited upside. Unless Kyle Shanahan and the front office value Tomlinson’s intangibles and leadership enough to give him the edge over Burford, it’s hard to see this as a game-changing decision. Still, the question remains: Is Tomlinson’s experience worth the risk, or is it time to look elsewhere? Let’s spark some debate—what do you think? Is Tomlinson still a valuable asset, or is his time in the league coming to a close? Share your thoughts in the comments!
