Niners Nation: All Posts by Jordan Elliott"We're the San Francisco 49ers, we can do whatever we want."https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47865/ninersnation_f.png2023-08-09T12:30:00-07:00https://www.ninersnation.com/authors/jordan-elliot/rss2023-08-09T12:30:00-07:002023-08-09T12:30:00-07:00Thank you for the memories, Niners Nation
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<figcaption>Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Jordan Elliott is on to greener pastures as he continues to chase his dream.</p> <p id="73706W">Saying goodbye is not the hard part. It’s what we leave behind that is the toughest. </p>
<p id="D25jZ6">It is with a wide range of emotions that I must start this by sharing with you that this will be my final piece of work for Niners Nation. The past two years I’ve spent here have brought me some of my happiest memories, but the time has come to start writing a new chapter in my life.</p>
<p id="CK49kX">I am ecstatic to announce that starting on August 21, I am joining the NBC Sports Bay Area team in a Digital Editor role, covering all the Bay Area sports teams, including our beloved <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>.</p>
<p id="H3Iast">There are so many things I want to say, and I will try my best to do so, but first and foremost, I would like to say this.</p>
<p id="JHkGDk">Thank you, from the bottom of my heart to all the readers here at Niners Nation for being the backbone of the platform that allowed me to live out a lifelong dream and cover the San Francisco 49ers. </p>
<p id="7mTgzm">It gave me a feeling of bliss that I had never experienced anywhere else in this world. I was working with a smile every day, knowing that I loved every second of what I was doing. And when I say I loved every second of it, damn, I mean that with every fiber of my being.</p>
<p id="GGkngD">As I sit here reflecting on the last couple of years with Niners Nation, I can’t help but smile thinking about all the places this role took me. </p>
<p id="ggYuNI">Whether it was training camp, games on the road, the scouting combine, or the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL draft</a>, I am overcome with joy thinking about the things I was able to experience and the lifelong friends I made along the way. </p>
<p id="zOEh68">I look back on the countless late nights I spent by my dimly lit desk in my tiny apartment. Poring over numbers, cutting up film clips, and bending over backward to ensure that whatever I was publishing would be the best version it possibly could be.</p>
<p id="XobF2C">I look back and chuckle thinking about how much I’ve grown from that first article I published on this platform back in July 2021. It did not take me long to realize that this was a unique community of readers who demanded a high level of quality content and were not shy about letting you know if it was not up to their standard. </p>
<p id="LYiVjn">The consistent feedback told me that even if my work wasn’t perfect or if there was a difference in opinion, the readers here still cared enough to digest it and share their thoughts with me, which was the ultimate compliment in my eyes, especially as a newer member of the team.</p>
<p id="Kdogcm">That standard of excellence you set made me work harder to be the best version of myself that I could be. And for that, I am eternally grateful. </p>
<p id="IpfT7O">I want you all to know how much effort I put into my work here, hoping that it would be something that you would enjoy. Nothing warmed my heart more than seeing your responses to a piece of work I sunk significant time into and then having the ability to discuss it with you in the comments. </p>
<p id="OOUi7a">That interaction with the readers here will be what I miss the most as I take this next step in my journey. I can’t tell you how many times I would scroll through the comment section here and have it put a smile on my face as wide as the holes that Trent Williams opens up for his running backs.</p>
<p id="BryMwn">I’ll miss the witty banter, incredible one-liners, hard-hitting analysis, and general camaraderie, even in disagreement. But the most important thing was that everyone cared. They cared about the 49ers and, more importantly, cared about one another. They also made me feel welcomed, something I will always cherish when I look back fondly at the time I spent here. </p>
<p id="8ih4nC">Whether it was picking each other up after the gut-wrenching loss in Philly or basking in the euphoria after the thriller in Green Bay. One thing you could always count on was the community at Niners Nation would be there to live through it together.</p>
<p id="yG7K51">I know many of you were regulars on this site well before my time here and will continue to be long after my departure. I hope that I made your experience as enjoyable as you made mine during the time that I could be a part of this.</p>
<p id="rvnWct">Furthermore, I greatly valued the feedback from the readers here and always did my best to read the comments under my work in search of ways that I could improve. While I am incredibly thankful for that, I am beyond grateful for the kind words and appreciation that so many of you took the time to leave under my articles. </p>
<p id="r0LESj">Those words really did mean the world to me, and your graciousness will always have a special place in my heart. </p>
<p id="pUQMyO">This role at Niners Nation was the first time I felt like I belonged in sports media. For those of you who don’t know, it has always been my dream since I was a little kid to cover sports in some capacity, and thanks to you, I was granted the opportunity to do so. </p>
<p id="euhWFD">I also extend my deepest gratitude to Kyle Posey, who took a chance on me two years ago and was responsible for me having the opportunity to build a relationship with this incredible community that I cherish so much. </p>
<p id="kcaNOJ">It’s funny. There are so many things I had planned to say to express my gratitude to you all, but as I sit here and type this, I keep coming back to a quote by Dr. Seuss that has stuck with me: </p>
<p id="uZtNFZ">“You never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”</p>
<p id="7TaMmm">As I prepare to say my farewell, I want you to know that I do know the value of these moments turned into memories that we shared together during my time at Niners Nation. </p>
<p id="Pi8ghy">And the truth is that value cannot be adequately measured because, to me, they are priceless. </p>
<p id="Edmolm">While I will no longer be employed by SB Nation, I will do my best to keep in contact and find my way into the comment sections. That way I can see those familiar faces that I will miss more than words can describe.</p>
<p id="qqmUuo">So as I sign off one last time, allow me to say thank you once more. Thank you for giving this kid who grew up spending his Sundays at Candlestick the chance to do what he loves the most in this world. </p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/8/9/23823867/49ers-jordan-elliott-memories-niners-nationJordan Elliott2023-08-07T07:01:00-07:002023-08-07T07:01:00-07:0049ers rookie report: Brayden Willis is the real deal
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<figcaption>Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Breaking down how each rookie performed during the first week of camp, from Ji’Ayir Brown to Jake Moody.</p> <p id="Q9PP7G">With the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> entering the dog days of training camp, their rookie camp is getting their first authentic taste of the grueling days of August leading to the regular season. I did a quick write-up on my observations and what I have seen from a handful of the rookie class during their first preseason in the NFL.</p>
<p id="VhQ1Ko"><strong>Brayden Willis</strong></p>
<p id="XdsNyA">Selected by San Francisco with the 247th pick of the 2023 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>, Willis looks to be another day-three pick that the 49ers knocked out of the park. While there is room to grow as a blocker, Willis has flashed a receiving ability that gives him a serviceable floor from day one.</p>
<p id="tEozQk">He has an excellent feel for getting open during team drills, wasting no movement getting to his landmarks, and crisply getting in and out of his breaks. He had one rep in particular that stood out to me during an 11-on-11 period, where he was lined up inline and was able to create separation on a crossing route by adequately selling the run action.</p>
<p id="8RrvMT">It may not seem like much, but those are the key details that will get him on the field sooner rather than later. Willis also had an impressive one-on-one rep where he showed tremendous body control to go up and grab a back shoulder fade deep down the left sideline.</p>
<p id="2muxCF">Even on the plays where he wasn’t getting the ball, he stood out with his ability to get open against zone coverage and offer his quarterback a viable option. It should be noted how difficult the transition from college to the NFL is for most tight ends, so patience will be essential. However, what Willis flashed as a pass catcher is promising early on.</p>
<p id="ZsJLdO"><strong>Cameron Latu</strong></p>
<p id="FmTdQk">I saw Latu flash very little during the team periods for the first couple of days I was at camp. On Friday, he turned that around by putting together an impressive one-on-one period that followed with a strong performance in 11 on 11’s</p>
<p id="5dmxhQ">His most impressive catch to date came over the middle with safety Tayler Hawkins draped all over him in tight coverage. Latu was moving toward the right hash and had to go down well below his knees to catch a ball in stride that Hawkins was also contesting.</p>
<p id="PmiPUL">He displayed tremendous hand strength through the catch point to hang on to the ball through significant contact by the defensive back before turning upfield for a nice gain. Once again, tight ends typically take time to find their footing, so I am okay with what has been a relatively quiet camp so far for Latu.</p>
<p id="fMjBFP"><strong>D’Shawn Jamison</strong></p>
<p id="JE8dYx">The undrafted rookie out of Texas has been arguably the most impressive 49ers rookie thus far. The biggest thing that stands out is how he carries himself among the other veteran defensive backs. Based on the eye test alone, you would have a hard time believing he is about to enter his first season in the league.</p>
<p id="5smMf6">He’s quick, has good instincts, and has yet to look severely over-matched at any point of this camp I have seen. He had an incredible pass breakup on a ball intended for Chris Conley during team periods, flashing tremendous closing speed to break on the ball and eliminate a would-be first down during a move-the-ball period.</p>
<p id="d0Ql1h">Jamison is making a solid case early that he deserves a spot on the final 53-man roster and will be a crucial name to watch in the three scheduled exhibition games as the preseason approaches.</p>
<p id="gpWErl"><strong>Ji’Ayir Brown</strong></p>
<p id="wblewZ">After being taken with the 49ers’ highest pick back in April, he has more pressure to perform right away than any other rookie on the roster. While I haven’t been blown away by his performance thus far, he has also been solid in many regards. Particularly, his closing speed to the flat.</p>
<p id="b0awDl">The sequence from Brown that has impressed me the most came during back-to-back plays during an 11-on-11 team period. On the first, Brown took a bad angle to wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who was turning upfield after catching a pass over the middle. Samuel was able to quickly maneuver around Brown and run untouched into the end zone for a touchdown.</p>
<p id="oLiLR8">On the next play, Brown was on an island as the last defender standing between the ball carrier and the end zone after an extremely well-blocked screen to the right side. Brown positioned himself perfectly and made the stop in the open field for a minimal gain. His ability to rebound immediately following a problematic rep was an extremely encouraging sign of his maturity.</p>
<p id="Arq9s2">I also would argue that he could be a player who flashes more in an actual game environment than during practices. He got an opportunity to get snaps with the first-team defense that was without Talanoa Hufanga on Saturday and looked good in his action with the top unit.</p>
<p id="E7ANlh"><strong>Dee Winters</strong></p>
<p id="VGuFvh">As camp has progressed, Winters has noticeably begun to flash more frequently. The biggest thing that has stood out to me is his versatility. He has shown to be a capable linebacker in the traditional responsibilities at the position while also displaying tremendous upside as a pass rusher.</p>
<p id="KAB2Kf">He’s utilized an extremely effective swim move to win multiple reps while getting after the quarterback. Winters also notched an impressive tackle for loss on a running play during an 11 on 11 period that was sure to impress the defensive coaches evaluating that day’s practice film.</p>
<p id="cLwNqh"><strong>Ronnie Bell</strong></p>
<p id="OtYRUr">The seventh-round pick out of Michigan has been among the most frequently targeted players on the 49ers roster during training camp. Bell’s six receptions are tied with Willis for the most among the team’s rookie class.</p>
<p id="2s58aI">His most impressive catch came during an 11-on-11 period when he was targeted deep down the left sideline. Bell had defensive back Tre Swilling all over him and was able to bring down the ball while absorbing contact at the catch point before turning upfield for an even bigger gain.</p>
<p id="vXEDhB">The 49ers’ wide receiver room is extremely deep, so it might take a strong preseason from Bell if he is going to challenge for a spot on the final 53-man roster. His early performance in camp has been encouraging though, nonetheless.</p>
<p id="EXP7NS"><strong>Jalen Graham</strong></p>
<p id="e2MsAk">Graham has shown off his defensive back background, displaying an ability to cover significant ground in a very short time. He has made a handful of plays that stood out during team periods, including a sack and tackle for loss.</p>
<p id="VBCTLJ">The upside is clearly there, but the 49ers are so deep at linebacker that it will be interesting to see if either of their rookie draft picks at the position make it to a final 53-man roster. That position could be log-jammed due to the number of veterans with special teams experience who might edge them out.</p>
<p id="VajLDN"><strong>Robert Beal Jr.</strong></p>
<p id="ZmSNoQ">Beal Jr. has not participated in the last few practices, with what is presumed to be an injury-related absence. He has been on hand and appears to be moving around without any noticeable restriction. He was wearing a catapult tracker on Friday, indicating he is doing some form of exercise during practice even if he isn’t participating with the team.</p>
<p id="P8zYag">Beal Jr. did flash some intriguing pass-rushing traits early on in camp but faces an uphill battle to a significant role in year one based on how deep the 49ers’ defensive line group is.</p>
<p id="IJwH01"><strong>Jake Moody</strong></p>
<p id="sFDW6O">I had to save the most anticipated for last. This one takes little nuance, Moody has an electric leg and was regularly splitting the uprights from over 50 yards away. The most impressive by far was a 57-yard field goal that Moody drilled to end Thursday’s practice.</p>
<p id="wcURCj">This not only would have been good from 65-plus yards out, it split the uprights and drilled the play clock positioned directly in the middle of the uprights. Quite literally a perfect kick:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">57 yard FG from Jake Moody with room to spare. <br><br>This was right after another kick that went over the fence (was a flag on that one) <a href="https://t.co/Jr7355rGAX">pic.twitter.com/Jr7355rGAX</a></p>— Steph Sanchez (@Steph49K) <a href="https://twitter.com/Steph49K/status/1686454362187665408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2023</a>
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https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/8/7/23821490/brayden-willis-jiayir-brown-jake-moody-cameron-latu-49ers-rookiesJordan Elliott2023-08-03T15:42:17-07:002023-08-03T15:42:17-07:00Quarterback observations: Purdy finds his groove on Day 7
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<img alt="NFL: San Francisco 49ers Training Camp" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fu9xNxcWe9AhYB5C2rw9Ra_EQ50=/0x0:5500x3667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72512384/usa_today_21095972.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Brock Purdy looks better on Day 7. Sam Darnold isn’t too shabby. Trey Lance turns it over, but that’s not the story</p> <p id="7eEjk2">It was a solid showing for all three quarterbacks who took reps during the team period on the seventh day of <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> training camp. Brock Purdy, Sam Darnold, and Trey Lance all participated, while Brandon Allen did not take a single snap during the team period of practice.</p>
<p id="zgE8XI">The good news is all three participating in 11 on 11’s looked solid in their respective reps. In a world starving for a quarterback controversy, today’s practice didn’t offer much of an extreme in either direction.</p>
<p id="KsF3TZ">It was a heaping helping of moderately adequate quarterback play, which has proven to be an effective baseline for a 49ers team that makes a deep playoff run whenever they can sustain that level of play from whoever is under center.</p>
<p id="gZdqqf">My biggest takeaway from watching this group was that the 49ers are a double-digit win team with any of the three taking most of the snaps during the regular season. I did not feel a major drop-off from one to the next, an encouraging sign for a team that saw its championship hopes shattered by injuries to three different quarterbacks in 2022.</p>
<p id="DZja5Y">Purdy continued to be the only quarterback exclusively working with the first-team offense. That’s yet another sign that there is no doubt in Kyle Shanahan’s mind who his starter will be Week 1 in Pittsburgh should all the available options be healthy.</p>
<p id="NMizvk">Shanahan explained why Purdy practice Thursday:</p>
<p id="5ZIxoa">“No because he’s had two days on, one day off. And so, he had yesterday off, we don’t want to go two in a row. So, he went today, he’ll go tomorrow. Then he gets the third practice off. So, it’s part of the whole plan. That’s why we have these three days.”</p>
<p id="t6TGQK">His play on the field also justified that feeling, regularly making the in-rhythm throws that are essential in Shanahan’s offense. Purdy has seen the field well, consistently getting the ball out quickly and allowing his star-studded cast of playmakers to create after the catch.</p>
<p id="q6fsvQ">His best throw of the day came on a glance route to Brandon Aiyuk, who had linebacker Oren Burks draped over him in excellent coverage as he broke over the middle. Purdy threw a perfect ball into a tight window that hit Aiyuk in stride and allowed him to turn upfield untouched for a touchdown.</p>
<p id="Ba0Qbg">He had a couple of really nice throws on these timing based in breaking routes to Aiyuk in today’s practice, allowing his receiver to rack up yards after the catch due to the accuracy of the ball placement.</p>
<p id="EzPVKZ">It was a great example of the improvement Purdy has shown throwing to a spot on the field rather than to the body of an open receiver. An encouraging sign that his rhythm is continuing to improve the farther we get into camp, which should be no surprise for a quarterback who missed the entire offseason.</p>
<p id="MGEybB">His biggest miss of the day came on a third down during move-the-ball drills. Deebo Samuel was running a go deep down the right sideline. Samuel had a step on Samuel Womack, but Purdy underthrew him and allowed Womack to make a play on the ball and disrupt the connection. With the separation Samuel had created, that’s a ball where the quarterback can’t allow a defensive back to contest it.</p>
<p id="ID3aMp">Building chemistry on those deep balls down the sideline is the most significant area to watch with Purdy and his wide receivers going forward. Overall, it was a sharp practice for Purdy and left no doubt in my mind why the 49ers feel so strongly about him as their starter moving forward.</p>
<p id="pYvtd4">Shanahan is pleased with Purdy’s progress:</p>
<p id="gn7tiV">“I don’t think anyone’s back to where they were exactly last season. We’re going through training camp, a lot of guys had more practices than him, but we only had six in OTAs. But he’ll get there. He’s doing some good things. They’re all doing some good, all doing some bad. But we’re not worried about Brock. Brock’s the real deal. He knows how to play, and we’ve just got to have our team keep getting better, and he’ll keep getting better as we go.” </p>
<h3 id="sUWAxR">Play-action Darnold</h3>
<p id="v6v7I1">As for Darnold, what stood out to me the most was how he was asked to roll out of the pocket and throw off play action more than the other quarterbacks in today’s practice.</p>
<p id="4R4CbT">His most impressive throw came on a play action with him rolling out to his left. With Clelin Ferrell running free in his face, Darnold turned his shoulders and made a difficult throw under pressure to hit Danny Gray in the flat for positive yards.</p>
<p id="YspQ86">He also had another that stood out despite it counting as an incompletion. On a first down near the edge of the red zone, Darnold threw a ball up the seam intended for tight end Brayden Willis who multiple defenders trailed in tight coverage. It ended up overshooting Willis but was put in a place where he would have been the only one who could have made a play on the ball.</p>
<p id="mTmyyI">I mentioned this one because Shanahan pulled Darnold’s unit off the field immediately after this play and ended practice shortly after. I would speculate that Darnold and the offense were aware they had only had one play to take a shot at the end zone. And given the available options, it was a more than acceptable decision and throw by any measure.</p>
<p id="HwEIVW">Darnold’s worst miss of the day came on a 3rd & 2 during move-the-ball drills. The offense dialed up a play-action call with Willis running a slide route to the left side. Darnold held the ball a little too long, and by the time he got it out to Willis in the flat, defensive back Myles Hartfield was able to break on the ball and register a pass break up.</p>
<p id="oGre2T">It’s a throw and catch that you can’t afford to miss; the slightest bit of bad timing created a hiccup that led to a drive stalling and the offense coming off the field. Overall, it was a solid day for Darnold, who flashed his athleticism with some of the throws he was asked to make on the run.</p>
<p id="c8VmcZ">Lance had a couple of throws to the intermediate area of the field that stood out to me. The one that impressed me the most was a spot throw to Willie Snead over the middle of the field. Snead ran a drift route, and off play action, Lance quickly identified the soft spot in the coverage and delivered a ball that allowed his receiver to sit down in the zone and avoid a big hit over the middle. Quality rep all around for Lance.</p>
<p id="NkhWYm">He also had another deep throw to the right sideline to Tay Martin on a deep crosser, which happened to be wide-open primarily due to how this play was schemed up. However, in Shanahan’s offense, those open throws will be plentiful for whoever is under center. I think Lance or any other quarterback deserves the recognition when they can capitalize on those opportunities.</p>
<p id="iWEwf5">While Lance was the only quarterback to throw an interception during today’s practice, that was not his worst miss of the day. He missed Willis badly on a quick slant, the kind of rhythm throw you have to demonstrate that you can hit if you are going to have any chance of being in the driver’s seat of Shanahan’s offense.</p>
<p id="r9dJoW">As for the interception, the offense ran a high-low concept with a crosser and a route to the flat. Lance tried to hit a receiver on a crossing route breaking in from the right side. Rookie linebacker Dee Winters was the hook defender and dropped into the throwing lane to pick off Lance. Here is what Shanahan had to say about the interception:</p>
<p id="jlZYI2">“So, one day it’s a high low, and he was too deep, and he wanted the deep throw, and he’s got to check it down.”</p>
<p id="gNqjbG">Just like the other two quarterbacks, Lance had a good day of practice for the most part. His confidence in throwing downfield is evident, and he continues to look stronger each day he is out there.</p>
<p id="2p0GHH">While not checking down led to the turnover, improving his consistency with the timing on those short routes will be the biggest thing to watch with Lance as camp moves forward.</p>
<p id="qtgo1h">On a final note, some teams in the NFL don’t have one viable quarterback on their roster. The 49ers have three of them, which is always going to be an excellent problem to have.</p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/8/3/23819295/brock-purdy-trey-lance-sam-darnold-49ers-training-campJordan Elliott2023-08-03T08:25:11-07:002023-08-03T08:25:11-07:00Why statistics should not define training camp performances
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<img alt="NFL: San Francisco 49ers Training Camp" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_p_f6-fcHWzcKJGIkW5nTEa_DhY=/0x0:5500x3667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72510712/usa_today_21095970.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Practice is meant for mistakes and to test your limitations.</p> <p id="A5GtDO">As we enter the dog days of August, so comes the training camp discourse driven by statistics that are not relevant by any definition of the word.</p>
<p id="qL4mTI">Training camp signals a new beginning, a fresh start, and the return of football. It’s only natural that the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>’ passionate and invested fan base will want to absorb any updates they can as we inch closer to kicking off another season.</p>
<p id="Soc02W">The dilemma that comes with that stems from taking what happens on the practice field and packaging it in a way that it is consumable for the fans who were not present.</p>
<p id="D1drDQ">Statistics can be a valuable resource. They will often paint a clear and objective picture of an outcome. However, the issue with training camp is that the outcome is not the priority. The process is.</p>
<p id="NaCjF1">Before I expand on that, I first want to focus on the most important thing going into every NFL practice. It’s not completion percentage numbers or sacks. It’s what you did today to improve yourself and grow as a football player.</p>
<p id="U7QKHR">The only way that can be accomplished is by taking risks, which will inevitably lead to mistakes. In an ideal world, those mistakes will then be reflected upon and corrected.</p>
<p id="LgatVy">The issue with the discourse surrounding the 49ers over the last few seasons is the extreme reaction to the mistakes that stem from the risks that players are not only expected to take but genuinely encouraged to take.</p>
<p id="O2MiD9">This must be considered when evaluating how successful a practice is, both at the individual and team levels. A concerning performance by a box score’s standards could actually be a breakthrough performance in terms of growth and progress being made.</p>
<p id="2MB0pl">The other issue that has evolved is this constant need to label a winner and a loser for every single rep during a team period or one-on-one portion of training camp. This kind of binary thinking has led many to get so caught up in the raw numbers that, as a result, they miss the forest for the trees.</p>
<p id="C93kMX">After observing Tuesday’s practice, I wanted to highlight a couple of plays demonstrating why focusing on these numbers is not an ideal way to paint the best picture of what has unfolded in a given practice.</p>
<p id="hnFMbm">The first came on a play that resulted in an incompletion by Trey Lance on a ball intended for tight end Ross Dwelley. This shows up on a stat sheet as a miss, which inevitably snowballs into a discussion about accuracy, completion percentage, and a million other things that take a backseat to what matters — growth.</p>
<p id="CKX9eg">As insignificant as it appears on the stat sheet, this rep was a very encouraging example of how much Lance has progressed during his time in the NFL. Based on the defense's alignment, he checked out of a run with a blitz coming and made a throw to his hot receiver.</p>
<p id="2psliv">The process was fantastic, which cannot be stressed enough.</p>
<p id="XxdarM"> This is precisely the kind of thing you want to see from a developing young quarterback. Now would a completion have been an ideal outcome? No doubt.</p>
<p id="E6HQgp">But when Kyle Shanahan and the offensive coaches break down this practice film, do you think they care more about the incompletion or the fact that Lance correctly directed the offense? Of course, it’s the latter.</p>
<p id="XcBSzb">So rather than focusing on whether or not the ball was completed, why not focus on how it got there and why the quarterback made the decision he did to target that spot? That will be far more valuable in the long run when we look back at these practices in August that will be all but forgotten in a matter of weeks.</p>
<p id="X6pHlm">As for the issue of winning or losing during team periods, there has to be some level of competitive fire for every player that steps on an NFL field. Whether practice or an actual game, this is non-negotiable at this level of football.</p>
<p id="o1N0mX">Once again, this idea that success is mutually exclusive to one side of the ball during team drills is a fallacy. However, much pride these players have in besting their teammates during these portions of practice, the primary goal will always be improving as a collective unit.</p>
<p id="blDtnX">For the players and coaches on this team, there is no such thing as a winner or loser at the end of the day. There are only those who are getting better and those who are not. That is the accurate barometer of success.</p>
<p id="PeFfzn">A play during the red zone period on Tuesday’s practice encapsulated this perfectly. Brock Purdy delivered a beautiful ball to the back pylon, hitting Jauan Jennings on a wheel return route for what would technically be scored as a touchdown in this practice setting.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This play was a perfect example of why there shouldn’t be binary thinking about winners or losers on every play during a practice<br><br>I’ll explain in more detail below why I feel this way, but the gist of it is the outcome doesn’t matter, the process does <a href="https://t.co/5Eks5AwNee">pic.twitter.com/5Eks5AwNee</a></p>— Jordan Elliott (@splash_cousin) <a href="https://twitter.com/splash_cousin/status/1686810477035487232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2023</a>
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<p id="ZNog7p">That would be a win for the offense, right? The presumed starter delivered a great ball to a key wideout who ran a great route. I’d undoubtedly chalk that up as a victory for the offense.</p>
<p id="qM5cgD">On the flip side, however, defensive linemen Alex Barrett dominated his matchup up front and was well into the backfield before pulling up to a stop well before Purdy released this ball. Due to the rules of practice, Barrett cannot make contact with Purdy, but rest assured, in any other setting, that's a sack every day of the week and twice on Sunday.</p>
<p id="LiFFCK">The issue with binary thinking is that this play gets broken down into a debate between two absolute outcomes. Either you don’t count the sack, and the touchdown is a win for the offense, or you acknowledge Barrett’s pressure and say the throw should be negated because Purdy would have been sacked in a real game.</p>
<p id="pufl6c">The way it should be viewed is as a win across the board. Remember, this “touchdown” or “sack” literally does not count. No record book or database will track these meaningless statistics. What is real, however, is the throw that Purdy made and the win that Barrett recorded in the trenches.</p>
<p id="xyZhb9">Two positive things that these players can take away and build upon as they look to stack days throughout the progression of training camp.</p>
<p id="5mQbSz">My ultimate point is that when looking for the scoop on what happened at one of these practices, I’d encourage you to seek out the how and why rather than the result.</p>
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https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/8/3/23817577/brock-purdy-trey-lance-49ers-training-camp-statsJordan Elliott2023-08-01T18:34:25-07:002023-08-01T18:34:25-07:005 under the radar defensive standouts from Day 6 of 49ers training camp
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<figcaption>Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Between Alex Barrett and Marcelino McCrary-Ball, the 49ers flexed their depth Tuesday</p> <p id="B5DmfJ">The intensity in the air was palpable as the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> took the field for their second padded practice of this year’s training camp. After a week to get their bearings together, we finally arrived at the good stuff. Football with pads, the way it was intended to be played. </p>
<p id="malqYG">Star players like Fred Warner or Javon Hargrave will typically have strong practices. To avoid stating the obvious, I kept a close eye on some underrated members of the 49ers’ defense in today’s practice. After deliberating over my notes, I highlighted five under-the-radar players who stood out to me during the team period.</p>
<p id="sOLjq7"><strong>Alex Barrett </strong></p>
<p id="TVDoBw">Barrett was arguably the best player on the defensive side of the ball today. He was consistently disruptive, recording multiple pressures as well as a sack. The most impressive rep of the day for Barrett was a swim move to beat right guard Spencer Burford. It was textbook, you couldn’t have asked for a cleaner rep. </p>
<p id="Tlrkpu">He was also a force in the run game, stonewalling a double team on an inside zone attempt that led to a minimal gain by running back Christian McCaffrey. The cherry on top was how disappointed Kyle Shanahan looked with his offense after Barrett effectively wrecked this play.</p>
<p id="RE5IkX">He also notched what should count as a sack, getting into the backfield before pulling up to avoid contact with Brock Purdy, who delivered a beautiful ball to Jauan Jennings in the back of the end zone on a wheel return route. Great throw by Purdy, but if we are scoring this fairly, it should be noted that Barrett would have assuredly gotten home with his pressure had he been allowed to hit the quarterback. </p>
<p id="P33Akd">Barrett has consistently stacked good practice days and is a name to watch as the 49ers prepare to fill out their final 53-man roster at the end of this month. </p>
<p id="hBZ7I5"><strong>Javon Kinlaw</strong></p>
<p id="SSLTD7">The former first-round pick has always oozed potential, with the main obstacle in his professional career being an unfortunate string of injuries that have kept him off the field. </p>
<p id="lrWzm3">I <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/3/22/23651115/javon-kinlaw-49ers-trade-release-injury-history">made the case</a> back in March that it was too soon to give up on Kinlaw based on the typical recovery window from the major knee surgery he underwent in 2021. Based on how he was moving out there on the practice field today, I am as confident as ever in that assertion. </p>
<p id="FH60LL">He looked explosive in his get-off, moved very well laterally, and showed off the raw power that led to him being such a coveted prospect coming out of South Carolina. His most impressive rep of the day was a sack during 11 on 11’s where he won with an incredible long arm move to get into the backfield. </p>
<p id="VRl4Vz">Currently, Kinlaw looks as good as he has since coming into the league and is a prime candidate for a breakout year for the 49ers in 2023. If you’ve held onto your Kinlaw stocks for this long, they are likely to pay big dividends.</p>
<p id="3EDFZr">If you’ve long since moved on, I highly recommend finding a spot on the bandwagon before it leaves town for good. </p>
<p id="c0DDLj"><strong>Marcelino McCrary-Ball </strong></p>
<p id="uKxZ4m">I thought McCrary-Ball was the best linebacker on the field today, and I’m not sure it was particularly close, either. He flashed tremendous closing speed and was a force in the passing game, registering an extremely impressive pass breakup on a Sam Darnold pass to close the red zone portion of practice. </p>
<p id="MNSqJs">He also showed a fire you want to see at this stage of camp, ripping the guardian cap off Jordan Mason’s helmet while fighting to get the ball out twenty yards up field.</p>
<p id="uylfKB">Suppose he continues to practice the way he did today. In that case, he can win over the powers that be and take over the starting linebacker vacancy created by the departure of Azeez Al-Shaair in the offseason. </p>
<p id="S00fZx"><strong>Kerry Hyder Jr. </strong></p>
<p id="vyA9yL">If Kris Kocurek told me that Hyder Jr. was his favorite player, I would not be surprised. The one word I always come back to when watching Hyder Jr. is “motor,” and today, that motor was on full display during the team period. </p>
<p id="f2movM">His effort was evident on every rep, the most impressive of which came in the red zone period. Hyder Jr.’s most impressive rep of the day cam when he used a bull rush to push the pocket and then got his hands up in the throwing window, which forced Darnold to change his arm angle and deliver the ball low enough that it was broken up by rookie linebacker Dee Winters. </p>
<p id="z920YK"><strong> Taco Charlton </strong></p>
<p id="Bjcs7E">After being signed this morning, Charlton immediately impacted his first practice with the team. His standout play of the day was a sack during 11 on 11’s, beating rookie guard Joey Fisher with a move to the inside.</p>
<p id="fmCaMd"> Charlton is a former first-round pick with intriguing athletic traits but is noticeably lean for someone playing defensive end at the NFL level. Whether or not he is viewed as a camp body or perhaps yet another reclamation project for Kocurek remains to be seen, but his first showing in the red and gold flashed some promise. </p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/8/1/23816259/alex-barrett-marcelino-mccrary-ball-49ers-training-camp-day-6Jordan Elliott2023-08-01T04:00:00-07:002023-08-01T04:00:00-07:0049ers’ top-ranked 2022 defense managed to get even better this offseason
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<p>This team is going to be a problem for opponents once again. </p> <p id="SgvyqA">With the 2023 season set to kick off soon, the San Francisco 49ers have a lot of new faces ready to contribute toward their pursuit of a championship.</p>
<p id="nMgMwx"><a href="https://dksb.sng.link/As9kz/30m1?_dl=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsbook.draftkings.com%2Fgateway%3Fs%3D671872939%26wpcid%3D163148%26wpcn%3DOpeningOdds%26wpsrc%3DVox%26wpcrid%3DOdds&pcid=163148&pscn=Odds&pcrn=OpeningOdds&psn=Vox">DraftKings Sportsbook has the 49ers listed with the fourth-best odds</a> to win the upcoming Super Bowl at +1000. Below, I’ve highlighted four key additions and four key departures to help paint a picture of where the roster currently stands and why those odds are what they are.</p>
<h2 id="Ph9W3b">Roster additions:</h2>
<p id="0MQwz8">The 49ers were active in free agency during the offseason, adding difference makers on both sides of the ball. I will highlight a few of these signings and how these players project to fit onto the 49ers roster while pursuing the ever-elusive sixth Lombardi.</p>
<h3 id="oGRw1Z"><em>Javon Hargrave, defensive tackle </em></h3>
<p id="od6cD4">Hargrave is the biggest get in free agency for the 49ers since Richard Sherman signed with the team in 2018. As important as Sherman was to the culture this team has built, Hargrave has a realistic shot of making a larger impact that would be more on par with the addition of Justin Smith way back when. </p>
<p id="4MDMsk">He is coming off a season where he was one of the most impactful interior defensive linemen in the entire NFL, playing a key role on the Philadelphia Eagles’ run to the Super Bowl. The 66 pressures he recorded ranked third among interior defensive linemen in the NFL, while his 11 sacks ranked fourth.</p>
<p id="lZ1pDz">Adding Hargrave to a defense that finished last season as the top-ranked unit in the league is the kind of franchise-altering move that could prove to be the difference between securing a championship rather than falling short.</p>
<p id="Pz8N1C">Pairing him on the interior with Arik Armstead not only forms arguably the best one-two punch of interior pass rushers in the league but also creates more opportunities for Nick Bosa and whoever is playing opposite him at the other edge position. </p>
<h3 id="I66n2G"><em>Isaiah Oliver, defensive back </em></h3>
<p id="HhK9Kk">The 49ers fortified their secondary by signing the former Atlanta Falcon to a two-year, $6.75 million contract. Oliver is a versatile defensive back with plus physical traits and the ability to play inside or outside. </p>
<p id="Bmm43A">In the 2022 season, 75 percent of Olivers’ defensive snaps came in the slot, likely where he will be utilized within the 49ers’ defense. A reliable, proven veteran who the 49ers were high on entering the league, Oliver provides a high-ceiling option to help cement a back end that lost one of its most important pieces in free agency.</p>
<h3 id="6NeEe7"><em>Clellin Ferrell, EDGE</em></h3>
<p id="LC37Jw">After being selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2019 draft, Ferrell wasn’t able to live up to the lofty expectations that come with being selected that high. However, he has still shown the ability to be a capable rotation piece on an NFL defensive line.</p>
<p id="mH4JKw">He joined the 49ers on a one-year, $2.5 million deal, giving him a chance to revamp his stock like many players in a similar situation in San Francisco before him. It also provides the 49ers a trustworthy piece to place into their EDGE rotation, fortifying a group with a few key departures over the offseason. </p>
<h3 id="xovDuV"><em>Sam Darnold, quarterback </em></h3>
<p id="N042b6">The 49ers learned the tremendous value of having a few viable options at the quarterback position the hard way last season. While Darnold has had an underwhelming career since being drafted as the third overall pick in 2018, he does bring a wealth of experience to what projects as a backup role. </p>
<p id="RPo41n">After going through four different quarterbacks last season, the 49ers saw firsthand how bleak things can be without a capable quarterback. Darnold’s floor and upside are both up to debate and interpretation, but at minimum, he gives the 49ers an alternative at the position who has a significant amount of snaps in the NFL under his belt. </p>
<h2 id="MJRL6j">Departures:</h2>
<h3 id="FPBxs3"><em>Jimmie Ward, defensive back </em></h3>
<p id="uUq4I1">After nine years with the team, Ward was the longest-tenured 49ers player before he signed with the Houston Texans this past offseason. As good as the defense has been for the 49ers year after year, this feels like a loss that will be much more difficult to overcome. </p>
<p id="qhLaVy">Ward was not only a respected veteran in the locker room but also one of the most versatile defensive backs in the league. He’s capable of playing any of the five positions in the secondary, so finding someone to replace his production while offering that level of flexibility will be extremely difficult. </p>
<h3 id="3LE8CF"><em>Samson Ebukam, EDGE</em></h3>
<p id="BT3vNI">In his two-year stint with the 49ers, Ebukam recorded more pressures than any other player except for Bosa. Not only did he produce at a high level, but he did so while learning a new position upon his arrival in the Bay Area. </p>
<p id="FCzwVm">Ebukam is a physically gifted edge rusher who developed a strong pass-rushing repertoire to pair with the inherent strength he possessed. His consistent ability to get after opposing quarterbacks will be challenging to replace. </p>
<h3 id="X6EQVl"><em>Charles Omenihu, defensive line </em></h3>
<p id="dypc1N">After being acquired in a mid-season trade during the 2020 season, Omenihu developed into one of the most important pieces on a 49ers defense that was a top-five unit during both his seasons with the team. </p>
<p id="8pmDju">His ability to rush on both the edge and interior at a high level will be sorely missed, as will his postseason heroics. He recorded multi-sack games in each of the 49ers’ Wild Card Round wins over the last two seasons. </p>
<h3 id="BjoPbl"><em>Robbie Gould, kicker</em></h3>
<p id="ycS5cs">Not necessarily a position people are excited to discuss, but considering how many games are won and lost on the legs of kickers, a loss like Gould cannot be ignored. After six seasons in the red and gold, Gould remains unsigned, while the 49ers appear to have moved on with their selection of Michigan kicker Jake Moody in the third round of the 2023 draft.</p>
<p id="UrwN9b">The loss of Gould will be felt in the games that mean the most, as it will be near impossible to replicate his postseason perfection. Gould has never missed a kick in the postseason, making all 21 of the field goals he attempted in the playoffs during his stint with the 49ers. </p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/8/1/23799690/san-francisco-49ers-2023-roster-updates-offseason-recap-javon-hargrave-isaiah-oliver-clellin-ferrellJordan Elliott2023-07-28T15:05:00-07:002023-07-28T15:05:00-07:00Chris Foerster explains why Tyrion-Davis Price is poised to take a leap in year two
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<img alt="NFL: Washington Commanders at San Francisco 49ers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/J4fXx9Yp8cN9PuLWaq65iDMgeWU=/0x0:5435x3623/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72494334/usa_today_19678975.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="nlU8VR">Tyrion Davis-Price might not have made a significant impact in his rookie season, but he appears poised to make a jump heading into year two.</p>
<p id="ioTaJQ">49ers run game coordinator Chris Foerster shared an encouraging outlook on Davis-Price’s progress and why there is reason for optimism as he looks to carve out a role in a crowded backfield.</p>
<p id="DOfQVG">“He looks great,” said Foerster as he spoke to the media before Friday’s practice. “Guys between their first and second year make one of the biggest jumps. They know what to expect, they know what camp is going to be like, they know what their shortfalls were, they went through a whole offseason of being corrected on things they needed to work on, they come back after camp and they are ready to go.”</p>
<p id="pjup6k">After being selected with a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft, Davis-Price tallied just 34 carries for 99 yards across six games. Foerster then went into detail about what areas Davis-Price needed to work on coming off of a rookie season that left a lot to be desired:</p>
<blockquote><p id="eKgsyi">“The whole process, learning how to be a professional, how to come into work everyday. The consistency factor, and he works very very hard, he’s a very hard worker, sometimes you get behind the eight ball early and it just doesn’t all ever make sense over the course of the year, and having the chance to sit back, relearn it in the offseason, and then get back out there and apply it during the season can really be helpful. So he’s done a really good job with that.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="HCjfM0">They were encouraging words about the continued progress of a player that had plenty of promise coming out of LSU just a little over one year ago. During his final collegiate season, Davis-Price racked up over 1,000 rushing yards on a highly efficient 4.8 yards per carry.</p>
<p id="maEaKr">He shined in particular when running through contact, breaking 37 tackles for the season while averaging 2.8 yards after contact per carry. Despite doing this in a very tough conference, Davis-Price faced a significant adjustment in transitioning from the SEC to the NFL.</p>
<p id="Ny8ACx">Foerster touched on this, while also providing details on where Davis-Price is making noticeable strides in the early stages of his second NFL training camp:</p>
<blockquote><p id="3805gS">“Also some of his open field running and things like that, just making the adjustment from college to the NFL. He’s a good, hard, tough runner. But again, a little bit of the elusiveness, hitting the holes with more consistency, like with speed and trusting knowing what he’s looking for, knowing what he sees and doing those things, its all coming together for him.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="zXZVin">Given how 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan utilizes a committee approach in the backfield, it is easy to envision a path to a sizable role for Davis-Price in his sophomore season. There is still a long way to go before anything is definitive, but hearing that he is taking strides in the right direction is promising. </p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/7/28/23811668/chris-foerster-tyrion-davis-price-49ers-shanahan-lsuJordan Elliott2023-07-28T06:30:00-07:002023-07-28T06:30:00-07:00Kyle Shanahan keeping an open mind about the starting defensive end spot opposite Nick Bosa
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<figcaption>Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Bosa’s brief absence could allow the 49ers to develop multiple edge rushers</p> <p id="aKE41t">Nick Bosa’s unresolved contract situation isn’t the only uncertainty surrounding the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>’ defensive line. After the departures of Samson Ebukam and Charles Omenihu this past offseason, there is now a vacancy to be filled at the starting defensive end spot opposite of Bosa.</p>
<p id="aWUJRW">As training camp kicks off, the two most likely candidates are Drake Jackson and free agent signing Clelin Ferrell. After the first day of practice, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan shed some light on what that competition for that starting spot might look like over the next few weeks.</p>
<p id="YQUyf8">“They looked good,” said Shanahan after Wednesday’s practice. “The way these springs have been the last couple of years, we don’t really do much with the o-line and d-line, so I don’t really stack them that way. If they’re new guys who haven’t been at that spot recently, as in the last few years, I go into training camp with a very open mind. They all did a good job improving and stuff, getting in shape in OTA’s. Now we’ll see where they are at here over the next few days, nothing really counts until we get the pads on and start doing a little more football.”</p>
<p id="N7U2VM">Neither Jackson nor Ferrell has the starting experience on this defense that Shanahan had mentioned, which should make this battle one of the more intriguing competitions during camp this year.</p>
<p id="49aCqF">Ferrell has the edge over Jackson regarding NFL experience, appearing in 58 games since being selected fourth overall in the 2019 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL draft</a>. While he might not have lived up to the lofty expectations he entered the league with, he proved to be a reliable rotation piece on the <a href="https://www.silverandblackpride.com/">Las Vegas Raiders</a> defensive line over the last few seasons.</p>
<p id="kLMlRG">On the other hand, Jackson is a bit more green, entering his sophomore year on the heels of a rookie campaign that saw his playing time diminish down the backstretch of the season.</p>
<p id="kLGesx">Shanahan has noted that his decreased role was primarily due to him needing to make some changes to his body that would enable him to hold up to the brutal gauntlet that is an NFL season.</p>
<p id="c06Njy">The good news is that Jackson was successful in implementing these changes, placing himself in a prime position to earn a starting spot in year two.</p>
<p id="6OqxU6">Based on the track record of defensive line coach Kris Kocurek, it’s safe to assume whoever wins this job will be an integral part of a defense that aims to finish as a top-five unit for the fifth season in a row.</p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/7/28/23809061/nick-bosa-shanahan-49ers-edge-rusherJordan Elliott2023-07-24T11:01:00-07:002023-07-24T11:01:00-07:00Where CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin ranks Kyle Shanahan among NFL head coaches
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<figcaption>Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Every offseason there are debates about Shanahan’s merits as a head coach. Heading into 2023, should Kyle be in the top 5?</p> <p id="mB8I0w">Kyle Shanahan has proved to be an invaluable commodity since taking over as the head coach of the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> in 2017. Since his arrival in the Bay Area, the 49ers quickly transformed from a laughingstock to a perennial contender year in and year out. </p>
<p id="aYQ2H7">It’s no secret how well-respected he is in league circles, but how well does he stack up compared to his peers? <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-head-coach-rankings-andy-reid-remains-no-1-as-disciples-doug-pederson-john-harbaugh-crack-top-10/">CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin</a> released his rankings of all 32 head coaches in the NFL, with Shanahan ranked second behind only Andy Reid of the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com">Kansas City Chiefs</a>.</p>
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<p id="8BYTZG">“<strong>2. Kyle Shanahan (49ers)</strong></p>
<p id="aRDAYb"><strong>Season: </strong>7th with SF, 7th as HC</p>
<p id="bw8iLz"><strong>Career record: </strong>52-46 | <strong>Playoffs: </strong>6-3 (0-1 in <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>s)</p>
<p id="iAiN65">“Three losing seasons in six years, plus back-to-back <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfc-championship-game">NFC Championship</a> losses, proves he’s not a cure-all for his own team. But he’s awfully close to it. Consider that in the last four years alone, San Francisco has reached the conference title game three times; the one time they didn’t, QB Jimmy Garoppolo missed 10 games. When QB injuries struck even harder in 2022, his space-creating designs allowed rookie <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/2961306/brock-purdy/">Brock Purdy’s</a> seamless takeover, plus <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/2136743/christian-mccaffrey/">Christian McCaffrey’s</a> seamless deadline integration. A talented “D” has helped, but again, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone better at single-handedly drawing up such effortless offensive production, which is frankly what matters most in today’s NFL.”</p>
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<p id="eiQzQR">As Benjamin points to in his article, Shanahan has done more with less than anyone else in the NFL in recent history. The most glaring example of this came during the 2022 season when the 49ers’ offense never seemed to miss a beat despite cycling through three different starting quarterbacks. </p>
<p id="seX1FZ">While the Super Bowl win has proved elusive, Shanahan still boasts a stellar record in the postseason — particularly when the 49ers are playing at Levi’s Stadium, where they have never lost a playoff game under his watch. </p>
<p id="JVJeF9">This success has placed him in a tier of his own, becoming the first coach in NFL history to win multiple playoff games in each of his first three trips to the postseason. </p>
<p id="NnL32S">Another area where Shanahan has shined has been his ability to put together a top-notch coaching staff year after year. Three of his former assistants are now holding head coaching jobs in the NFL, with numerous others who left the 49ers for promotions with other organizations in various roles. </p>
<p id="520iXY">The discussion around Shanahan typically starts with his uncanny ability to scheme on the offensive side of the ball. Still, he has proven to be the total package that teams covet in a head coaching role. </p>
<p id="3DKUGn">He may not get the respect he deserves until he can hoist the Lombardi Trophy, but meanwhile, 49ers fans can be at ease knowing they have one of the best in the business running the show in Santa Clara for years to come.</p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/7/24/23805261/49ers-cbs-kyle-shanahan-among-nfl-head-coachesJordan Elliott2023-07-20T09:01:00-07:002023-07-20T09:01:00-07:00Best of the best from the 49ers 2022 season: Red zone touchdowns
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<img alt="San Francisco 49ers v Chicago Bears" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IdafMc_hj9g9uL2D7Ca6YWGjPhI=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72468888/1423802894.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Nothing is better than scoring 6</p> <p id="JEQilu">Today’s look back at the 2022 season focuses on something everyone can agree is fantastic. Touchdowns. More specifically, touchdowns scored in the red zone.</p>
<p id="B987Tu">I picked a few plays that stood out to me and explained why they succeeded. Let’s start with the first touchdown of the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a> 2022 season...</p>
<p id="dfwrYd"><strong>Deebo Samuel six-yard touchdown run @ Chicago </strong></p>
<p id="Gmugcs">The 49ers may have only scored one touchdown in their season-opening loss, but it was a touchdown to remember.</p>
<p id="iBHAaO">On 2nd & Goal from the Bears’ six-yard line, the 49ers came out in an 11-personnel grouping with Deebo Samuel lined up in the backfield to the left of Trey Lance in a shotgun look.</p>
<p id="JmxD7M">The play design looks very similar to ‘30-31 Wag’, a run-pass option with a built-in screen. Chicago’s defense showed a two-over-two look to the boundary, with an overhang outside Ross Dwelley in the slot.</p>
<p id="ldRGbp">Due to this being an unfavorable look to throw the screen against, Lance likely eliminated this option before the ball was even snapped. That left him to focus solely on making the right decision on a zone read exchange with Samuel.</p>
<p id="kAjCVo">Bears defensive end Robert Quinn steps down, which is the key Lance reads to give this one off to Samuel, who finished off his run by bowling over Eddie Jackson at the goal line for a 49ers touchdown:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">RPO with a bubble screen to the boundary<br><br>Lance probably eliminated the bubble pre snap because of the look the Bears showed with 2 over 2 & the overhang outside of Dwelley<br><br>It then becomes just zone read<br><br>Lance reads the backside DE & gives to Samuel due to the DE stepping down <a href="https://t.co/w7cUfec7bj">pic.twitter.com/w7cUfec7bj</a></p>— Jordan Elliott (@splash_cousin) <a href="https://twitter.com/splash_cousin/status/1569590923344113667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a>
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<p id="KQ5NGU">I included this one because it highlights the variance that Kyle Shanahan envisioned when projecting how Trey Lance would fit into this offense. The threat of him running adds so much stress to a defense already being pushed to its limits by the scheme.</p>
<p id="skCctD">It also shows how special of a player Samuel is and gives a preview of what is to come in a year, where he has made it clear he is looking to take his play to another level.</p>
<p id="Y19Ae1"><strong>Jimmy Garoppolo connects with Brandon Aiyuk in Mexico City</strong></p>
<p id="BrH0Ab">These were the first points on the board for San Francisco’s beat down of their division rival south of the border. On 3rd & Goal from the five-yard line, Shanahan dials up a concept from their ‘Cheetah’ play call, a staple of his red zone offense.</p>
<p id="mFwyqq">The 49ers offense comes out in an 11-personnel look with Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and Jauan Jennings to the pass strength. Aiyuk is in the slot with Samuel to his left out wide and Jennings to his right.</p>
<p id="qAPDER">Samuel runs a “Now” route, a slant that breaks inside one yard past the line of scrimmage. Aiyuk is running “Stick China,” which looks like a stick route but has the receiver break down and burst inside after taking three steps out of their break to the outside. Jennings runs what appears to be a flag route, helping to clear space for Aiyuk when he breaks back inside on his stick china route:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“Cheetah” a Kyle Shanahan staple in the red zone, with a couple of modifications<br><br>The slant/stick china combo to the pass strength is there (Aiyuk catches the TD on stick china) but 85 appears to be running “Swirl” in place of the fade, while 15 runs a corner instead of stick nod <a href="https://t.co/TsVWJRXHRJ">pic.twitter.com/TsVWJRXHRJ</a></p>— Jordan Elliott (@splash_cousin) <a href="https://twitter.com/splash_cousin/status/1595161702114656256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2022</a>
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<p id="zg5Ttp">This one made the cut because it exemplifies what makes this offense so dangerous. The scheme puts these players in a position to maximize their abilities to the fullest, and Aiyuk executed his route to perfection. It makes something that is anything but easy look like a walk in the park.</p>
<p id="675zbG"><strong>Garoppolo finds Kittle in the back of the end zone in Los Angeles </strong></p>
<p id="t6YVXA">This came from the 49ers’ statement win over the Rams in Los Angeles during week eight. On 3rd & 3 from the Rams’ seven-yard line, the 49ers come out in a 21-personnel look.</p>
<p id="DtzNwZ">The play call fakes a run action to the right side, with Garoppolo rolling back to his left with a hi/lo route combination to choose from on that side. Christian McCaffrey is the primary read, running a “short flat,” and George Kittle is second in the progression running a “low cross.”</p>
<p id="gdWThJ">McCaffrey’s gravity is on full display on this play, as the Rams defense swarms towards him in the flat, effectively taking away Garoppolo’s first read. That wasn’t an issue. He was able to move to his second read and deliver a layered throw toward the back pylon, hitting Kittle for a touchdown:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Same route combination as “WEAK RT NASTY ROLL LT”<br><br>Short flat to McCaffrey is the primary read<br><br>Kittle on the low cross is second in the progression<br><br>Defense bites hard on the route to the flat<br><br>Garoppolo opts for his secondary read & delivers a great ball while rolling left <a href="https://t.co/C2GahJHEdF">pic.twitter.com/C2GahJHEdF</a></p>— Jordan Elliott (@splash_cousin) <a href="https://twitter.com/splash_cousin/status/1681888499761561600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2023</a>
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<p id="3yPxSd">I included this one because it shows how impactful McCaffrey’s presence is to create opportunities for others on this offense. It also was a tremendous connection between Garoppolo and Kittle, hopefully, it gives you a chance to reminisce on the many that occurred between the two over the last half-decade or so.</p>
<p id="CpLlru"><strong>Purdy Mania is born </strong></p>
<p id="CzQalA">The focus of this last one isn’t on the play design but rather on the symbolism behind the result. Heading into week 13, the 49ers were rolling on a four-game winning streak that saw Garoppolo playing arguably the best football of his career.</p>
<p id="iwO5r6">They looked like a bonafide contender, and 49ers fans had every reason to believe this team could beat anyone who stood in their way. And then, in a moments instance, that optimism instantly turned to worry as Garoppolo was carted off with an ankle injury that would ultimately be the end of his season and time with the team.</p>
<p id="2doB7X">After losing two starting quarterbacks in the same season, the fate of this championship-caliber roster now rested in the hands of Brock Purdy, who was selected with the last pick in the draft just six months prior.</p>
<p id="9mKeel">It was a tense and harrowing moment coming to that realization, but before it fully resonated, Purdy gave 49ers fans the best gift you could give anyone—something to believe in.</p>
<p id="tqTZ6H">The 49ers marched deep into <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> territory, trailing 7-3 while facing a 1st & goal from the Miami three-yard line. They came out in a 21-personnel look with Samuel, Aiyuk, and Kyle Juszczyk lined up to the pass strength on the right side.</p>
<p id="5UTPir">Samuel and Aiyuk set picks on Miami defenders to free up space for Juszczyk in the flat. Purdy fakes a handoff to McCaffrey before turning to his right and firing the ball to a wide-open Juszczyk, who joyously hopped into the end zone to give the 49ers the lead:</p>
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<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/PlXXf2C22n">pic.twitter.com/PlXXf2C22n</a></p>— Jordan Elliott (@splash_cousin) <a href="https://twitter.com/splash_cousin/status/1681899562171269122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2023</a>
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<p id="lc5ynf">On the surface, it may seem like a routine touchdown, a throw and catch that any pair of NFL players should be able to execute in their sleep. However, for those who felt the gut-wrenching pain at the thought of losing yet another season to horrendous injury luck, this play sparked a glimmer of hope and laid the foundation for an unprecedented run with Purdy under center to close the season.</p>
https://www.ninersnation.com/2023/7/20/23801242/49ers-2022-red-zone-touchdownsJordan Elliott