The San Francisco 49ers opened up Phase 3 of the offseason workout program with a strong contingency of players on hand for the team's three days of organized team activities. Everything outside of the team's mandatory minicamp, which is slated for June 10-11, is voluntary for players, so the good turnout speaks to the "re-energized feeling around the facility" quarterback Brock Purdy spoke about last week following his contract signing. During Phase 3, teams may conduct a total of 10 days of OTAS, however, no live contact is permitted. Players can participate in 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills.
"The majority of the guys have been here every single day," head coach Kyle Shanahan said. "It's been a great turnout. The energy has been good, and it's definitely carried over into practices these two days."
Practice Observations
- Overall energy and competitiveness is up. There are likely several reasons for this, and the extended offseason is one important factor to consider here. San Francisco wrapped up the season on January 5th, which is the earliest finish for this team since the 2020 season. Shanahan, Kittle, and Warner spoke to the benefits, both physically and mentally, that provided this team that has enjoyed extended playoff runs in three of the last four seasons.
- "There has been more turnover this year than probably the last six or seven years," Shanahan said. "This is the first time (in a long time) we've had a long break too. The year before last year, coming off the 2023 season, was one of the shorter breaks that we've had, having that tough loss in the Super Bowl and coming back six weeks later. It's never fun having January off, but those extra five weeks add up a lot. I think guys were itching to get back this time, excited to get back, ready to go for the first day. It's been a lot more fun that way."
- Purdy appears settled in with his receivers, some of which are newer or younger faces in the organization. He was connecting comfortably with free agent addition Demarcus Robinson in individual drills and has not skipped a beat with veteran wideout Jauan Jennings, who took on a much bigger role in 2024.
- Running back Christian McCaffrey is "as healthy as can be," according to Shanahan. He participated in both individual and 11-on-11 drills and looked as good as advertised. McCaffrey was speedy and explosive out of the backfield.
- The 49ers are dealing with a few injuries to their younger players. Per Shanahan, wide receiver Ricky Pearsall "tweaked" his hamstring and will not be participating in OTAs. Safety Ji'Ayir Brown underwent a procedure on his ankle and won't be ready to return to action until training camp. Rookies Alfred Collins (calf) and Marques Sigle (undisclosed) were not practicing on Thursday.
- Rookie defender Mykel Williams was a force on the field, flashing his explosiveness and power during defensive line drills.
- All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams was not on hand for Thursday's practice. Shanahan shared that Williams was present for the early portion of San Francisco's offseason workout program but is not currently in the building. He expects his left tackle to be back in The Bay soon.
- The 49ers newly signed punter, Thomas Morstead, was in attendance. His signing was made official on Wednesday.
