Robinson could play fullback; Clayton, Hicks compete for 3rd spot

Last week, San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans identified three things defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw needed to work on in preparation for his third NFL season: technique, technique, technique. Kinlaw is returning after undergoing season-ending reconstructive surgery to repair his ACL last year. To this point, the former No. 14 overall pick's contributions have been underwhelming. That could change in 2022, though. Kinlaw has put in the work during his recover, and as the 49ers ramp up his training camp workload, many feel that the defender could be on the cusp of becoming a dominant force for the defensive front. "I think Javon, he's

The San Francisco 49ers have a game this week. Not one that counts, or one that even has much meaning. Although it is meaningful to some young players trying to make the team. Friday night we get our first look at some of the new 49ers we've yet to see, as San Francisco squares off with the Green Bay Packers. Who will play? Who won't play? What if Trey Lance looks bad? We have answers to all your team questions and more. Let's open the mailbag. What will Shanahan do if Lance stays around a 50 percent comp % in camp and preseason? Will he still get rid of Jimmy and still start Lance? - Daniel K. Jimmy Garoppolo is still with the team, but only because a decision on what to do with him has yet to be made. He isn't practicing with the team, he isn't

The San Francisco 49ers play three preseason games in the span of 14 days. Head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke with reporters before Tuesday's practice and laid out his plan to ensure the starters get some exhibition reps without getting worn down. For second-year quarterback Trey Lance, that means playing in just two preseason games. "We've got a pretty good idea [for the preseason plan]," Shanahan said. "I definitely want to see how these practices go these first two days. I'd like to get guys to play in this game, mainly because I don't want them to play in the second game." On Friday, the 49ers will host the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium. Then, eight days later, they will play the Minnesota Vikings on the road. San Francisco will practice with the Vikings

San Francisco 49ers running back Elijah Mitchell is among several starters not suited up for tonight's preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers. While many aren't due to injuries, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Mitchell is still nursing a hamstring injury and will likely miss the entire three-game preseason. Schefter adds that Mitchell is expected to be ready for Week 1 of the regular season when the 49ers travel to Soldier Field to face the Chicago Bears. 49ers' RB Elijah Mitchell is nursing a hamstring injury that likely will prevent him from playing in the preseason, per league source. Mitchell is