The Good and Not So Good from 49ers OTAs: First Impression of Rookies

Key Points:

• Running backs Kaelon Black and Jordan James showed promise during Day 1 of 49ers OTAs, with Black demonstrating good hand-eye coordination and James exhibiting improved vision and familiarity with the system.
• Outside linebackers Romello Height and Jaden Dugger impressed, with Height lining up as a strongside linebacker in a five-man front defense and Dugger showing potential as a coverage linebacker.
• Wide receivers Ricky Pearsall, Jordan Watkins, and Jacob Cowing stood out with strong catches and explosive plays, positioning Pearsall as the likely No. 1 receiver when healthy.
• Several players underperformed or were absent, including wide receivers De'Zhaun Stribling and Christian Kirk, who struggled with drops and separation, and key absences like Mike Evans, Demarcus Robinson, and offensive tackle Trent Williams.
• Injuries and lackluster performances were noted at running back and tight end positions, with Isaac Guerendo sidelined due to a torn pectoral and Luke Farrell showing poor catching ability, raising concerns about depth and talent at tight end.