Our guy K.J. Wright, a true legend from the Legion of Boom era, is making some serious noise on the 49ers coaching staff, and that’s a wild twist nobody saw coming. Robert Saleh himself is talking him up, saying K.J. and other linebacker coaches are getting a “global understanding” of the entire defense. He’s talking about knowing the importance of communication, how pass rush and coverage link up, and how that gives them a leg up on other coaches looking to become coordinators. That’s big praise, and it tells you Wright isn’t just there to fill a spot; he’s climbing.
What’s Brewing in Rival Camp?
Over in their camp, there’s buzz about Dominick Puni, a guard who thought he’d peaked until defensive tackles started clocking him. He said it’s hard to listen when something “is working” in your head, even if a coach tells you it won’t fly forever. But once those D-tackles started beating him, the message landed. Puni embraced Coach Foerster’s guidance, found a new technique later in the season, attacked it in the offseason, and now he feels way more comfortable. That kind of self-correction shows grit, and rivals always like to see that.
We’ve also got their cornerbacks, a competitive bunch who make plays and let you know about it, according to defensive backs coach Ray Brown. He even admits he “pokes the bear” to get them fired up sometimes. These guys have more license to play aggressively this year, which has led to a ton of tipped passes and incompletions in the middle of the field. Receivers like Jacob Cowing and Jordan Watkins, especially Watkins with his contested catches, have been vexed by the close coverage early in camp. But De’Zhaun Stribling is standing out, looking confident even with a corner or safety draped over him. Cornerback Lenoir says Stribling’s strength is trusting his hands, catching away from his body, with a big catch radius and strong fingertips. And Stout, who’s also having a strong camp and matching up with Stribling regularly, just flat out said, “He’s going to be a dog.” Sounds like they’ve got some young talent emerging.
First Real Test Coming
The 49ers are gearing up for a joint practice with the Titans, and Tuesday is going to be a telling clash. This means our rivals will face off against some serious talent, including Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick from last April, and blue-chip wide receiver Carnell Tate, who was drafted No. 4 overall out of Ohio State. Tate apparently snagged three touchdown passes in one practice over the weekend with Ward throwing to him. Those 49ers “sticky corners” and Morris are about to get their first true test. You know we’ll be watching to see how that goes down. It’s an early look at how the competition is shaping up for the season ahead.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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