What we learned on day three of 49ers training camp

The 49ers held their third practice of training camp and it included players wearing pads! We saw a longer practice with more position drills like OL vs. DL drills which we hadn’t seen thus far. There was also a longer session of team drills, and no 7-on-7 work. Here’s what we learned on day three:

The Veterans

A few didn’t practice and were given a “veteran day off.” Richard Sherman, Joe Staley, Earl Mitchell, Pierre Garcon were all given the day off. Garry Gilliam was held out of practice for an minor elbow injury.

The Rotation

While Joshua Garnett rotates at right guard between practicing with the 1s and 2s with Mike Person, Pace Murphy and Darrell Williams rotated standing in for Joe Staley at left tackle.

The Potential

The lack of a pass rush is on everyone’s list of issues from last season and the team brought in coach Chris Kiffin to help the cause. It appears the defensive line took a step forward on third day of training camp and created pressure and then some. There were several “would be sacks” that start to prove the potential that this group has.

The Backs

When the pads go on, it can show whether a back really has it or not. The preseason will be interesting as many running backs are fighting for a spot on the 53. Jerick McKinnon is the obvious number one, Matt Breida looks like he’s locked in the second slot, who will be the third? Will it be Raheem Mostert who has a little size on the first two backs mentioned? Will it be Joe Williams, who Kyle Shanahan had a draft crush on but then was rumored to be inconsistent?