Colby would be the Week 1 starter at RG if Puni can't go, having started at RG in the preseason finale. His rookie performance will shape SF's interior run game and protection against Seattle's front, with Bartch providing depth if needed.

Colby started at left guard with Bartch out and maneuvered to right guard, signaling a Week 1 starter possibility if Bartch remains limited and Puni is out.

Colby stepped into first-team left guard duties against Denver after Bartch’s elbow injury, drawing high praise from Shanahan for steady improvement. He’s in a depth-chart duel with Zakelj and could become SF’s long-term starter if he shows run-game mastery, complementing Purdy and SF’s targeted pass-protection scheme.

Colby stepped in with the first unit at LG as Bartch’s injury status remained unclear, signaling coaching confidence in the rookie from Iowa. His performance provides a glimmer of depth security on the line as SF navigates injury chaos and aims for a steadier early-season run game.

Colby flashed a clean 21-pass-blocking grade per Pro Football Focus, signaling a potential runway to the 53-man squad as a seventh-round guard. A rough overall team performance opens opportunities for a smart, young anchor to rise with more reps.