The San Francisco 49ers drafted Mike McGlinchey — who was considered the best tackle prospect in the draft — with their No. 9 overall pick not to be their long-term right tackle. They picked him with the hope that he can develop into long-time left tackle Joe Staley’s eventual successor.
Staley most likely realizes the situation he finds himself in, which is that he’s essentially playing with his replacement. But despite the fact that McGlinchey could end up claiming his job, that hasn’t stopped the veteran from doing his best to help out the rookie as he learns the ropes in the NFL.
“He’s been awesome; Joe is the best,” McGlinchey said per Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle. “… What you see is what you get with Joe. There’s no B.S. There’s nothing behind the scenes. He’s a good person. He’s a good player, and he’s willing to help his team in any way possible.
“He’s taking me under his wing and helped me out when I need him to, answering every question I have. Meeting with me whenever I need him to. Going over film. He’s been awesome.”
As the Ben Roethlisberger situation has shown, there could be some conflict that arises whenever a veteran comes face to face with his likely successor. But that doesn’t seem to be the case in San Francisco, in large part due to Staley’s professionalism.
While Staley is likely helping McGlinchey take his job in the future, he’s also trying to help the team win in the present, which seems to be the more important thing for him.
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