Photograph: Jordan Watkins on Instagram
Vast receiver Jordan Watkins emerged as one of many San Francisco 49ers’ most intriguing rookies throughout organized group actions earlier this offseason. Throughout Thursday’s joint apply in opposition to the Denver Broncos, the 49ers’ offense struggled early, however Watkins stood out as a shiny spot, making a number of key catches and exhibiting poise in opposition to a tricky Denver protection.
Quarterback Brock Purdy spoke with reporters after apply and praised Watkins’ improvement through the early levels of coaching camp.
“Clearly, I believe Jordan has executed an ideal job coming in, studying, and placing every little thing collectively,” Purdy mentioned. “I believe each of us, we simply have to proceed to work on our chemistry and every little thing. We have had some actually good connections, however on the identical time, I really feel like there’s some room to develop—each of us.
“Seeing how he strikes and will get out and in of his route actions and whatnot, kind of like what [WR] Ricky [Pearsall] and I’ve executed, however we’ll get there. I place confidence in that, for certain.”
Purdy is working to construct chemistry with a younger, retooled huge receiver group. The 49ers traded away Deebo Samuel this offseason, Brandon Aiyuk will not be anticipated to be prepared for Week 1, and Jauan Jennings is nursing a calf damage whereas in search of a brand new contract.
That leaves extra alternatives for rookies and unproven gamers like Watkins, and Purdy is aware of time is of the essence because the 49ers gear up for the 2025 season.
“We now have a while,” Purdy added. “And I believe as we speak (Thursday) shall be a very good day to go sit down, and watch the movie, and see what each of us did, and preserve chipping away. However Jordan’s executed an ideal job, and I am excited for him this yr.”
The 49ers chosen Watkins within the fourth spherical of the 2025 NFL Draft after a standout last season at Ole Miss, the place he posted 49 receptions for 906 yards (18.5 yards per catch) and 9 touchdowns. Head coach Kyle Shanahan made it clear the rookie is being pushed to be prepared for a key position within the offense.
“I believed he had a greater day,” Shanahan mentioned after Thursday’s apply. “We’re pushing him arduous. Some days are going to be up, some are going to be down, however he is simply bought to maintain going ahead as a result of we have got to have him prepared for the season, and he is nonetheless working his method to get there.”
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Transcripts offered by the San Francisco 49ers Communications…
