San Francisco 49ers: Eric Heitmann Likely Out in 2011, Can the Niners Survive?

Eric Heitmann has undergone neck surgery, which will likely put him out for his second straight season.

Heitmann has been a diamond in the rough since he arrived on the 49ers, and his injury is a huge blow to the offense.

David Baas filled in fairly capably at center in Heitmann's place last season, but there were issues with bad snaps throughout the season that left something to be desired.

Baas' future in San Francisco remains uncertain, but his stock just went through the roof.

The 49ers are sorely lacking interior lineman. Mike Iupati is locked into the left guard spot, but the right guard and center positions are up for grabs at this point.

Baas could be the best candidate to fill both positions. If the 49ers were to keep Baas on and plug him into the center position, that leaves a struggling Chilo Rachal at right guard.

If Heitmann were healthy, Baas, Heitmann and Iupati could have the makings of a decent interior line.

The 49ers' offensive line has been a weak point on the team for a decade. They've invested heavily in the line, bringing in three first round lineman and the highest drafted tight end in history.

An injured offensive line leader is a huge letdown. The 49ers are going to have a hard enough time learning a complex Jim Harbaugh offense in a short period of time. They face an uphill battle even with their best 11 on the field.

Even so, Heitmann's health takes precedence over all else. At this point, it's unclear whether or not he will ever make a return to the gridiron.