49ers Sign Veteran Guard Robert Jones in Free Agency

Jones, 27, expected to compete for starting left guard role

Mar. 24, 2026 at 6:34am by Ben Kaplan

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The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to terms with veteran guard Robert Jones, adding depth and potential starting power to their offensive line. Jones, 27, is a strong candidate to start at left guard after making 30 career starts in the NFL.

Why it matters

This signing addresses a key need for the 49ers, who saw Spencer Burford depart in free agency and did not re-sign Ben Bartch, who started at left guard in Week 1 of the previous season. The addition of Jones provides much-needed experience and competition at a crucial position on the offensive line.

The details

Jones, who previously played under 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan's offensive scheme with the Miami Dolphins, brings a wealth of experience to the team. Despite missing the entire 2025 season due to a neck injury, he demonstrated consistent performance in 2024, receiving a pass block grade of 54.3, a run block grade of 56.3, and an overall grade of 56.1 from Pro Football Focus.

  • Jones agreed to terms with the 49ers on March 24, 2026.
  • He missed the entire 2025 season due to a neck injury.

The players

Robert Jones

A 27-year-old veteran guard who has made 30 career starts in the NFL after entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2021.

Kyle Shanahan

The head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, who previously worked with Jones in a similar offensive scheme with the Miami Dolphins.

Spencer Burford

A former 49ers offensive lineman who departed the team in free agency.

Ben Bartch

A former 49ers offensive lineman who started at left guard in Week 1 of the previous season but was not re-signed by the team.

Brett Toth

A free-agent addition who will also compete with Jones for the starting left guard position.

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What they’re saying

“We must add depth and experience to our offensive line, and Robert Jones fits that need perfectly. His familiarity with our scheme and proven track record make him a strong candidate to start at left guard.”

— Kyle Shanahan, Head Coach, San Francisco 49ers

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to monitor the competition between Jones and Toth for the starting left guard position during training camp and the preseason.

The takeaway

The signing of Robert Jones provides the 49ers with a veteran presence on the offensive line, addressing a key need and creating a competitive battle for the starting left guard spot. This move aligns with the team's strategy to build depth and experience up front, setting the stage for a strong 2026 season.