49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo says deep ball, like everything, is ‘a work in progress’

One of the heavily critiqued aspects of Jimmy Garoppolo's game is his accuracy on deep balls. The issue became less of a concern after deep training camp connections with wide receiver Marquise Goodwin became routine.

That doesn't mean Garoppolo is happy with where he is when it comes to deep passes. He has set a high standard for himself and his teammates.

"There's a number of things that we still are working on," Garoppolo told reporters on Thursday after the 49ers' final joint practice with the Houston Texans. "We try not to be happy or satisfied with anything. Obviously, we're always trying to push through. Short game, mid-range, and deep balls, obviously. We're always trying to improve those. It's a work in progress. We're trying to get it as well amped up as we can."

Garoppolo's head coach also has similar high standards. Kyle Shanahan was asked if he was happy with where his quarterback is at this point in the offseason.

"You want everyone to be perfect, so my answer will never be yes," Shanahan said. "He's been working his tail off going through this process. We've been through the (play) install completely. Now we're starting to isolate a little bit on coverages we're going against, but I've been real happy with him."

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Garoppolo has a great deal of confidence in his receivers. He is happy to have one back in particular. Second-year receiver Trent Taylor did not play during the 49ers' exhibition opener against the Dallas Cowboys last week but has been eased back into practices following offseason back surgery.

"Coming off any injury, it takes a little bit of time," Garoppolo said of Taylor. "I think he's been working hard. His cuts are becoming more decisive and efficient, and it's nice having him out there."

The 49ers made wide receiver Richie James a seventh-round draft pick in April, and the rookie has impressed during his first NFL offseason. Garoppolo said he appreciates having a guy like James, who has been described as "fearless," at his disposal.

"I think Richie's coming along well," Garoppolo said. "All those rookies, they're putting in the time. Him, Dante (Pettis), all those guys. It's starting to come together."