Raiders Sign Ex-49ers Guard to 1-Year Contract

Las Vegas continues to rebuild offensive line with addition of Spencer Burford

Mar. 18, 2026 at 2:22am

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The Las Vegas Raiders have signed former San Francisco 49ers guard Spencer Burford to a one-year contract. Burford, a fourth-round draft pick in 2022, started 16 games as a rookie but struggled with injuries in 2025. The Raiders are looking to rebuild their offensive line after allowing 64 sacks last season, as they prepare to draft a new quarterback with the first overall pick in 2026.

Why it matters

The Raiders' offensive line was one of the worst in the NFL last season, so rebuilding that unit is a top priority as they look to set up their future quarterback for success. Burford provides depth and experience along the interior of the line, and playing next to newly-signed All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum should help him improve.

The details

Burford was a fourth-round pick by the 49ers in 2022 out of UTSA. He started 16 games as a rookie but played in just 11 games in 2025 due to a knee injury. While he graded out as slightly below average overall, Burford was a positive in the run game and allowed just two sacks last season.

  • Burford was drafted by the 49ers in 2022.
  • Burford started 16 games as a rookie in 2022.
  • Burford played in 11 games in 2025 due to a knee injury.

The players

Spencer Burford

A fourth-round draft pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2022 out of UTSA, Burford started 16 games as a rookie but struggled with injuries in 2025, playing in just 11 games.

Tyler Linderbaum

An All-Pro center who the Raiders signed to a mega-deal this offseason to help anchor their offensive line.

Fernando Mendoza

The Indiana Hoosiers quarterback and reigning Heisman winner who the Raiders are expected to select with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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What’s next

The Raiders will look to further bolster their offensive line through the draft and free agency as they prepare to select a new quarterback with the first overall pick in 2026.

The takeaway

The Raiders are making a concerted effort to rebuild their offensive line this offseason, signing All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum and now adding former 49ers guard Spencer Burford on a one-year deal. These moves show the team's commitment to providing their future quarterback, expected to be 2026 Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, with a strong supporting cast up front.