Tom

Compton

Plagued by back issues all season, Compton was serving as an injury fill-in in Week 15 when he made it only 30 snaps before departing with a setback. They will go down as the 33-year-old’s lone plays of the 2022 season. A true journeyman, Compton is just about at the end of the line.

Compton was replacing an already-injured Quinn Meinerz. Given that he already missed half the season on the PUP list with a back injury, this reoccurrence looks likely to knock the 33-year-old out for the season. Luke Wattenberg replaced Compton at guard.

Compton could slide right into the starting role at right tackle with Billy Turner heading to injured reserve. The 33-year-old had a strong half-season as San Francisco’s right tackle last year, though that was fairly out of character to his general performance. Compton has missed the entire season up to this point since signing a one-year deal in March.

Coach Nathaniel Hackett said Compton recently underwent a back procedure. It is possible he is looking at an extended absence. Denver signed Cameron Fleming on Wednesday to shore up their depth at tackle.

Compton had a strong year as the 49ers’ fill-in right tackle in 2021 but has traditionally performed at or near replacement level. His calling card is versatility, as he has extensive experience at both tackle and guard. Compton turns 33 in May.

Compton started three games for San Francisco in 2020 and appeared in seven contests. He is a journeyman backup, playing for six teams in the past six years. The deal keeps Compton on the same team for consecutive years, something that hasn’t happened 2015, and gives the 49ers some cheap offensive line depth.

Signed to a one-year, $2.15 million contract in March, Compton agreed to receive merely $1.05 million with a chance to earn more through bonuses. This restructuring ensures his place on the active roster as he continues to compete as depth in the regular season.

The Jets used Compton in a swing role last year after he made 14 starts for the Vikings in 2018. Signing a journeyman like him gives the 49ers something to fall back on after releasing RG Mike Person. The 49ers are Compton’s fifth different team in the last five seasons.

Capable of playing just about anywhere along the offensive line, Compton was an ineffective starter at left guard for the Vikings last season. Even following the acquisition of Kelechi Osemele, the interior remains an area of need for Gang Green. Going on 30, Compton could end up with a starting job.

He’s week to week and in doubt for Sunday night against the Saints after getting hurt last Sunday against the Jets. If Compton can’t play, Danny Isidora figures to draw the start. The offensive line is this team’s weak point.