This year’s NFL preseason is shaping up to be an intense test of the San Francisco 49ers’ depth and adaptability – for both newcomers and experienced players. After being signed with the third NFL draft pick from Kansas, offensive lineman Dominick Puni showed impressive commitment. Within a few weeks, Puni gained a solid overview of the 49ers’ system and plays with the help of video footage from offensive line coach Chris Foerster. The reward for his efforts: Since the third day of training camp, Puni has been operating as a first-team right guard. This development was urgently needed, as the 49ers have been faced with injuries at guard positions. Spencer Burford suffered a broken hand that will keep him out of practice for at least a few more weeks, and Jon Feliciano, injured in his knee, only recently returned to training at a reduced intensity. Thanks to Puni’s stability and quick perception, he could also hold his own against the talented defensive line of the New York Jets. Meanwhile, it’s not all about the guards. The offensive line has shown mixed performances – especially in high heat and during the most strenuous training sessions. Tanner Mordecai, the fourth quarterback, took advantage of his extra opportunities and impressed with a solid performance, even if he missed a few throws at the end. Successive tough plays caused tension between running back Jordan Mason and linebacker Ezekiel Turner, which even ended in a physical altercation. Mason has been preparing intensively this summer to be a more versatile backup to Christian McCaffrey. He also relies on modern training equipment such as a jugs machine, which has made him a better pass catcher. The investment in himself is paying off, as he emphasized. Ji’Ayir Brown, who intercepted Brock Purdy twice on Saturday, is also showing upward trends. Purdy himself has had mixed results: Despite some precise passes, including to Deebo Samuel and Chris Conley, he was unable to score any touchdowns during the move-the-ball period. However, veterans also came to the fore: Aaron Banks returned from back problems, and Jaylon Moore showed strong performances in one-on-one drills against star defender Nick Bosa. The offense could not get the ball into the end zone, but Jake Moody secured some points for the team with successful field goals, also thanks to the support of fullback Kyle Juszczyk as a substitute holder. Overall, the 49ers’ training camp is characterized by intensive preparation and fierce competition – every moment could be decisive for the lineup in the season’s opening game.
