Kurtis Rourke didn’t just play well in his first real competitive football game in nearly two years, he looked like he might actually be a legitimate QB2 in the league, totally running a smooth operation for the San Francisco 49ers. This kid wasn’t frazzled at all when Robert Saleh brought extra rushers, completing all three of his passes when blitzed. And get this: those three completions averaged a crazy 14.3 yards depth of target, all of them going for first downs! Rourke pushed the ball downfield, knew exactly where to go with it, and played on time, all while staying aggressive. Seriously, this guy looked the part.
The Rookies Who Showed Up Ready To Ball
Rourke wasn’t the only one making a statement in the Niners’ first preseason game. Ashtyn Davis, who just signed back in June, played the fourth-most defensive snaps and was everywhere on kick coverage. He only had one tackle, sure, but he played the run like a beast and was aggressive with his run fits. He was in position in coverage and honestly, he should’ve had an interception. The guy looked like he belonged, and it feels like he’s making the roster.
Then there’s offensive guard Carver Willis. Talk about a pleasant surprise! Coming out of college, you’d think his arm length and ability to anchor would be a problem as a pro. But in this game, those issues barely surfaced, with only one rep showing his arm length as a factor. For the most part, Willis looked like he had enough grit to hold his ground, and his play was so good, he earned reps with the starters. That’s how you make an impression early on.
But Not Everyone Came To Play
Now, for every high, there’s a low. And unfortunately for the Niners, some guys need to seriously step it up as they turn the page to the second week of preseason. Left tackle Enrique Cruz Jr. was one of those. If you watched him, it looked like he was just guessing his assignment and figuring out what to do on the fly after the snap. Week 1 was a doozy for Cruz Jr., and honestly, you might have thought it was his first time playing football, period. Not good.
Cornerback Jakob Robinson had a wide-open door to walk through, and he just didn’t. He allowed two receptions on five targets, but that was more about errant throws from the opposing QB than any “sticky” coverage from him. On plays where he wasn’t targeted, Robinson was often out of position. He did have a run stop, but he also got blocked into oblivion on the very first play of the game. Yikes. And let’s not forget cornerback Alfred Collins. His struggles were on full display, and for a guy listed as having the “most to prove” before Week 1, he didn’t do himself any favors.
So, as the 49ers look ahead to the next preseason matchup, some of these guys either cemented their spot or are digging themselves a serious hole. For some, their NFL future is on the line right now.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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