Day one of 49ers’ training camp is in the books and things are looking good.
The Rookies
Nick Bosa
Nick Bosa, who missed most of the offseason program with a hamstring injury, looked every bit the part of the #2 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. He got past left tackle Joe Staley more than once and it’s hard to miss his speed.
“Bosa wins in close quarters,” 49ers’ defensive coordinator Robert Saleh said. “He wants you as close to him as possible. Then he just has an ability to flip his hips and get skinny in close quarters, where most people need space so can knock arms down and create angles.”
His ability was not lost on right tackle Mike McGlinchey, who got stepped on a couple times in practice but is ok.
“He’s got a great football pedigree and he’s very polished for a kid that’s 21 years-old as a pass rusher,” said McGlinchey. “He looks like this big, powerful guy, but he’s smart enough to use his hands and get down to bend around the corner.”
Dre Greenlaw
Fifth-round draft pick Dre Greenlaw saw first team reps as the SAM linebacker today and he was impressive, stopping running back Tevin Coleman on the first play of practice.
“…[T]hat tells you the guy has a nose for the ball and he’s not timid,” said fullback Kyle Juszczyk. “A rookie that’s going to go in there and shoot his guns on the very first play of practice; I think that’s impressive and he can build from that.”
Greenlaw has impressed his defensive coordinator as well.
“…[H]e’s got promise as a rookie,” Saleh said. “There’s going to be some things as the install gets wearing on him. He’s got good athletic movement, good instincts, more instincts than I thought he would behind the ball. You know, we’ve still got to get pads on, see how he can hold up against those linemen. He’s proving it every day by just being accountable and doing things the right way. He’s in the mix for that SAM linebacker spot, along with about four or five other guys. It’s an open position and may the best man win.”
QB1 Back in Action
A healthy and nimble Jimmy Garoppolo was back to 11-on-11s today and 49ers fans everywhere rejoiced. Although he missed on his first two pass attempts, Garoppolo finished strong with six straight completions.
How about QB1 hugging a young fan to brighten your Saturday? #49ers #49ersCamp pic.twitter.com/oLiUY6gb1v
— Tracy Sandler (@49ersfangirl) July 27, 2019
The offensive highlight of the day came when cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon was covering wide receiver Jordan Matthews on a deep crossing route. Witherspoon fell and Matthews was able to capitalize for a big gain on a pass from Garoppolo.
The 49ers’ next practice is tomorrow and the pads come on on Monday.
