Jordan recaps what he saw from Wednesday’s practice, as we take a break from the quarterback debates
Trey Lance’s electric performance was the day’s talk following the second padded training camp practice, and deservedly so. The rookie quarterback put on a show for all those on hand, validating the logic behind the 49ers‘ decision to part with a significant amount of draft capital for the chance to draft the first-year signal-caller.
There has already been plenty of discussion regarding Lance’s exceptional exhibit of talent, so I’m going to highlight some players at other positions who flashed during Wednesday’s practice.
OFFENSE
Trent Sherfield – Get used to hearing this name. For the second day in a row, Sherfield got extended reps with the first-team offense and looked every bit the part of an NFL starter. Sherfield has been running crisp routes, displayed consistent hands, and an explosive burst after the catch with the ball in his hands.
If this performance continues, Sherfield not only will be a lock to make the final roster but will also be a major weapon in the passing game moving forward.
Trent Williams – I touched on how good Alex Mack has looked, but Trent Williams is arguably the best player on the entire roster. Sometimes it feels like Williams is so consistently good that we tend to shy away from mentioning him with the standouts because he is frequently so dominant.
Williams had a textbook rep against a rejuvenated Dee Ford, stopping him clear in his tracks with minimal effort. I can recall only one pass blocking rep where Williams has been cleanly beaten, which is incredible given the dozens of chances the defensive line has had against him during 11-on-11 drills.
George Kittle – The All-Pro started camp with a string of performances that weren’t anything to write home about, but his showing during 11-on-11’s on Wednesday was a firm reminder of how truly talented the superstar tight end is.
He pulled in multiple catches during the 11-on-11 portion, including an impressive grab 30 plus yards downfield on a deep ball from Trey Lance —a day after pancaking Samson Ebukam on a rushing play to the outside.
Kittle is the engine that makes this offense go, and he appears to be backfiring on all cylinders.
DEFENSE
Tavon Wilson – Wilson had the most impressive day of any player not named Trey Lance and has continued to build on an already exceptional camp as he takes Jaquiski Tartt’s reps with the first-team defense.
Wilson has looked sound in coverage and has played well within the box. On Wednesday, he had a terrific rep in one-on-ones against George Kittle and followed that up with a near interception of Jimmy Garoppolo in 11-on-11’s. If Wilson continues to play at this level, there may be a legitimate battle opposite Jimmie Ward’s starting spot.
Ken Webster – With the absence of Emmanuel Moseley, the 49ers have been left with a revolving door at the corner position opposite Jason Verrett. In his first practice getting reps with the first team, Webster was solid. He recorded multiple pass breakups and looked good in coverage on the majority of his reps. It’s only a one-day sample size, but the performance invites optimism for the potential of having solid depth behind Moseley when he returns.
Arden Key – Key has gotten better each day of camp and had his best showing on Wednesday. He won multiple reps during 11 on 11s, including an impressive pass-rushing rep against Mike McGlinchey that resulted in a sack. It’s encouraging to see Key playing this well, considering the 49ers’ lack of depth at the edge spots. If he maximizes his opportunities by playing like he did Wednesday, signing Key could end up being one of the steals of the offseason for this team.