Each year, we like to run a series of posts called "90-in-90." The idea is that we'll take a look at every player on the roster, from the very bottom to the top and break them down a few ways. This roster will certainly change, and some days we'll have more than one so it's not exactly 90 players in 90 days. At this point, it's a name we're keeping around for street cred.
The San Francisco 49ers added a pair of offensive linemen when they signed their 2014 class of undrafted free agents. They signed Michigan State tackle/guard Fouimalo Fonoti, and New Mexico guard/center Dillon Farrell.
Both players are expected to be looked at across a variety of positions. Fonoti played tackle during his years at Michigan State, but the 49ers appear set to move him inside to guard. Considering the team has Joe Staley and Anthony Davis locked up for the foreseeable future, tackle is less of an issue. They'll need to maintain depth behind those two, but they are fine long term.
On the other hand, guard remains a question mark. Alex Boone is holding out with two seasons left on his contract, and Mike Iupati is a free agent after the 2014 season. It makes sense that the 49ers would want to find any and all interior options they can. The 49ers drafted Marcus Martin and Brandon Thomas to compete along the interior. Joe Looney is the front-runner at right guard, Jonathan Martin might get some interior opportunities, and of course Adam Snyder will compete as well, but there are plenty of questions remaining inside.
I could not find any scouting reports on Fonoti, so if you find anything, feel free to drop it in the comments.
Expected 2014 Impact:
At best, Fonoti is probably looking at a season on the practice squad. The spots are limited, and there are several offensive lineman with practice squad eligibility.
Odds of making the roster:
Barring injury, I don't see how he has a chance at a roster spot. The offensive line depth is pretty significant. If Alex Boone holds out into the season, that benefits a guy like Adam Snyder more than anybody else. For Fonoti, he's playing for a chance when the 49ers start moving on from their current guards.