Each year, we run a series of post called "90-in-90" here at Niners Nation. The idea is that we'll take a look at every single player on the roster, from the very bottom to the top and break them down a few different ways. This is to help give everyone a basic understanding of a roster. Of course, this roster will change, and some days we'll have more than one so it's not strictly one per day but you get the idea.
The San Francisco 49ers brought in some competition for their offensive line this offseason, but did not make huge splashes. They acquired Jeremy Zuttah in a trade, and signed center Tim Barnes, guard Brandon Fusco, and tackle Garry Gilliam. They did not spend a draft pick on the offensive line, but did add some UDFA talent after the draft.
One player that will be competing for a practice squad spot, and potentially something towards the back end of the depth chart is Richard Levy. The Connecticut product did not sign with the 49ers right after the draft, but instead took part in a tryout during rookie minicamp, and impressed enough to earn a contract.
Levy spent much of his career at UConn playing left tackle, including 25 starts at the position between 2014 and 2015. In 2016, he moved inside to guard, with the coaching staff suggesting this would make him “much more marketable.” He might have played some tackle as well his senior season, but it is not entirely clear.
There are no scouting reports on Levy, but here is what the 49ers emailed out when they signed him.
A 24-year-old native of Trenton, NJ, Levy (6-6, 315) attended the University of Connecticut. During his five-year career with the Huskies (2012-16), he appeared in 38 games (37 starts) along the offensive line. As a senior in 2016, he started in all 12 games while helping the Huskies rush for 100-or-more yards six times. In the 2014-15 seasons, he started 12 and 13 games respectively at left tackle, while seeing his first collegiate action in one game in 2013. Redshirted as a true freshman in 2012.
Basic info
Height: 6’5
Weight: 313 lbs
Age: 24 (25 on September 12)
Experience: Rookie
Cap status
Received no guaranteed money. Will earn league minimum $465,000 if he makes the roster.
What to expect in 2017
He’s a mountain of a man, but it seems like he has some development work to do having just made the move to guard. It would suggest a guy who lacks the athleticism to deal with rushers off the edge. With the various veteran additions to the line, the best expectation for Levy would seem to be a year on the practice squad.
Odds of making the roster
The 49ers are making significant changes to their roster, but the offensive line seems likely to be a tough one to crack for younger players. Guys like Levy could surprise us, but my guess is Brandon Fusco, Daniel Kilgore, and Zane Beadles are guys with a better shot at reserve roles.