The San Francisco 49ers are already seeing early signs of grit and adaptability from their fourth-round draft pick Carver Willis, who remains unfazed by his uncertain fit on the offensive line.
Selected at No. 127 overall on Day 2 of the NFL Draft, Willis joins the 49ers as a depth addition rather than an immediate starter. Despite rumors circulating pre-draft around the team’s plans for their offensive line, Willis is focused solely on competing and embracing wherever the team needs him.
Willis Embraces Versatility Amid Position Questions
Willis, who started at right tackle for the Kansas State Wildcats last season, understands that the 49ers view him as a better fit inside the line. He explained that playing guard or center requires a different skill set, highlighting strength and leverage over speed protection on the edge.
“There’s a lot of guys that have done it before me. You look at Zack Martin. Zack Martin is like, probably the best to ever do it. He played Tackle in college,” Willis said. “So, I don’t think there’s anything to be offended by. I’m not a guy that’s going to sit there and be like; I’m a Tackle and have a huge ego about it.”
Willis emphasized his team-first mentality. “I like playing offensive line. Where that is on the offensive line, I don’t really care. I like playing offensive line, and I like competing, so for me, anywhere along the five is good with me. I’m not particular to Tackle, Guard or Center. Just tell me what to do and I’ll go get it done.”
Strong Early Connection With 49ers Coaching Staff
Before fully adapting to the 49ers’ unique wide zone running scheme, Willis had a productive conversation with Chris Foerster, the team’s offensive line coach. Foerster regularly participates in coaching clinics at the University of Washington, where Willis gained early insight into the 49ers’ schemes.
“It was fun talking to him, and we even talked about the Combine,” Willis revealed. “He said it was fun to see you change your philosophy and really buy into how you all run wide zone and that kind of run scheme.”
Foerster noticed Willis’ improvement and commitment, signaling the coaching staff’s excitement about Willis’s development on the field right now.
Why Willis’ Mindset Matters for the 49ers’ 2026 Outlook
With the 49ers aiming to bolster their offensive line depth heading into the season, Willis’ no-ego attitude and versatility could prove crucial as injuries inevitably arise over the long NFL campaign.
As Ohioans and football fans nationwide watch closely, Willis represents the versatile type of player every team values — ready to seamlessly fill multiple roles. For a team like the 49ers, fresh off a recent Super Bowl appearance, his willingness to adapt might just help sustain their high-level offensive prowess.
Stay tuned as Willis continues to work through training camp and preseason, striving to make an impact along the 49ers’ offensive front. His journey reflects the broader NFL trend valuing flexibility and team-first attitudes — traits that resonate deeply in every competitive American sports market.
