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Ahead of Matchup with Texas, San Francisco 49ers make roster shakeup Changes – Young Star Compared to Joe Staley Gets Opportunity, Connor Colby Loses Starting Spot

Ahead of Matchup with Texas, San Francisco 49ers make roster shakeup Changes – Young Star Compared to Joe Staley Gets Opportunity, Connor Colby Loses Starting Spot

San Francisco, California – October 24, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers are making adjustments to their offensive lineup following their win over the Atlanta Falcons, and the focus of this change is at the left guard position. Rookie Connor Colby, selected in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft, may have to yield his spot to Nick Zakelj, a player the team has long rated highly for his versatility across multiple positions in the offensive line.

It's almost time for 49ers to punt on developmental offensive lineman

In the game against the Falcons, Zakelj unexpectedly came in to replace Colby for four consecutive plays in the second half. Initially, many thought it was just a tactical experiment, but according to internal sources, the coaching staff is seriously considering a change to the starting lineup to strengthen protection for Brock Purdy and Mac Jones.

Connor Colby is highly rated in run blocking, but he has struggled in pass protection situations – especially when facing fast and crafty linebackers like Kaden Elliss of the Falcons. This has caused the 49ers' offensive line to lose rhythm at times and require constant adjustments during the game.

Head Coach Kyle Shanahan is considering calling up center Drake Nugent from the practice squad to the main roster. If this happens, Zakelj will be moved to the left guard position – and is very likely to start next week.

Speaking after the latest practice session, Nick Zakelj expressed his determination:

“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. Getting to play with the starting lineup is a privilege. I don’t just want to fill a gap – I want to prove I can make a difference for this team.”

The changes to the 49ers' offensive line are seen as a crucial step heading into the mid-season phase, where the team needs maximum stability to maintain their competitive position in the NFC.

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