The San Francisco 49ers hosted a 30-minute press conference on Thursday to introduce the team's two newest additions – running back Jerick McKinnon and center Weston Richburg. The two players, with general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan, fielded questions from reporters.
Both McKinnon and Richburg were asked their thoughts on signing with the 49ers. Below is what they had to say.
Jerick McKinnon
"I'm just excited to be in an offense that I feel is a perfect fit for me," McKinnon told reporters. "The things that coach Shanahan has done with the backs, like he's done in Atlanta, Devonta (Freeman), Tevin Coleman, I see myself doing those kinds of things.
"For me, I feel like the scheme was right. The fit was just perfect for me, and I feel like I can't be in a better situation as a player."
Does McKinnon believe he can be a featured back with the 49ers while getting the vast majority of the carries?
"100 percent," he answered. "This is the opportunity that I've been waiting for not just since I've been in the league but since I've been playing football, period. I'm just excited to be here, be a part of this team and just push myself to be the best that I can when the season's ready to kick off and push the guys at the same position to be the best.
"I'm excited to be here, and I just can't wait to get to work."
McKinnon had several suitors in free agency. Ultimately, he felt Shanahan's offense was a perfect fit for him.
"I feel like what Coach Shanahan does with the backs in space and all that stuff, I feel like it was a good fit," McKinnon said. "I'm just ready to work. I'm glad to be here. I'm ready to be a part of something special that they're building here."
Weston Richburg
The New York Giants won just three games last season. Richburg was asked how difficult it was for him to be part of a disappointing season and what it means to join the 49ers.
"Any time you're not winning, it's difficult," he said. "Some of the circumstances made it a little more difficult. But I'm very excited to be here. I think I've been very fortunate to be with my last team, with a great ownership, great organization. I think this one is the same.
"Everybody I've met today has been very warm and welcoming. Just to be part of this culture, this environment, is something I'm very excited about."
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