Last year, the 49ers experienced an unexpected battle at right guard. Following Spencer Burford starting for most of the season, versatile veteran interior lineman Jon Feliciano emerged as a better starting option towards the end of the season, grading out as Pro Football Focus’ fifth-best guard in the NFL. The team is gearing up for another positional battle between the two this offseason, with third-round rookie Dominick Puni also in the mix. 
Feliciano is likely the frontrunner for the position. Despite not being seen as the most talented option by run game coordinator and offensive line coach Chris Foerster, Feliciano’s experience and consistency have proven effective for San Francisco. After securing the starting role late last season, Feliciano started all three postseason games for the 49ers. Only an injury led to Burford returning to the starting lineup, resulting in a critical pressure that dashed the team’s Super Bowl hopes.
Burford will still have the opportunity to reclaim the starting job. According to Cam Inman of The Mercury News, Foerster believes Burford is the most talented among the group. “We’re just looking for that consistency,” expressed Foerster. “Maybe it comes from Spencer this year. Obviously, he’s the most talented of the players. I think he’s as talented or more than Puni. Puni will push that from that. And Jon’s just a guy that is a veteran, good player that knows how to get it done.”
The fourth-round pick from UTSA in 2022 had been a starter in his first two seasons before being benched for Feliciano. Despite losing his starting position, Burford continued to see playing time under Foerster. If Burford can demonstrate the consistency that Foerster is looking for, he could find himself back in the starting lineup in 2024.
As noted by Foerster, Puni poses a challenge to both players in terms of talent and consistency. Playing his entire college career at left guard and tackle, Puni may not be cut out for tackle in the NFL but is considered a potential starter on the interior. While currently slotted as a backup to left guard Aaron Banks due to limited experience on the right side of the line, Puni could push Feliciano and Burford for the starting right guard position if he displays the needed consistency and ability to transition.
The 49ers have multiple options. Feliciano demonstrated his capability as a starter last season and is motivated to retain the job in what could be his last NFL season. If he does lose the starting position, his versatility across the interior line could secure him a spot as the effective sixth man on the offensive line, a role he fulfilled last season. Ultimately, if one of the more talented options identified by Foerster shows the required consistency, they could confidently claim the starting spot.
