Former Oregon Ducks Defensive Lineman Alex Balducci was signed as a Free Agent by the San Francisco 49ers, but will play a different position.
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San Francisco 49ers Head Coach Chip Kelly moved Balducci from Defensive Line to Offensive Line late last week in a move that some may have seen as a surprise, but in the move the former Oregon Lineman filled an area of need. Oregon players are versatile, especially Lineman and have learned in the College system to play multiple positions. Balducci is the first player to move from trying to attack the Quarterback to a position that is protecting the Quarterback at the NFL Level as an former Oregon Duck.
The Sacramento Bee reported that Balducci looked comfortable on the opposite side of the ball.
"Balducci measured 6-3, 309 pounds with 33-inch arms in the run-up to the draft, and he didn’t look out of place as he went through drills with the offensive linemen.Matt Burrows from the Sacramento Bee on Alex Balducci"
The players have been happy with Chip Kelly as Head Coach so far calling his Offensive Minded approach as ‘Genius’, according to CBS Sports. With the former Oregon Defensive Lineman shifting position, the improved depth, if it works out, could add to the persona.
Next: Oregon Baseball Falls Short vs Gonzaga
Chip Kelly is entering his first season at the helm of the San Francisco 49ers.