For most NFL rookies, their first in-game action can be a nervous experience. Even San Francisco 49ers first-round draft pick Mike McGlinchey admitted that he had to calm his nerves during the team's first drive against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night. For another 49ers rookie, however, it was business as usual.
Seventh-round draft pick Richie James hauled in the game-winning touchdown pass from quarterback Nick Mullens during the 49ers' exhibition opener. It may have just been a preseason game, but it was still a clutch performance during a pressure situation. It was also James' first NFL touchdown, albeit in a game that does not matter in the standings.
James had a pretty good showing in his NFL debut, recording four catches for 46 yards and the touchdown. It followed a strong training camp and offseason for the rookie receiver. However, when it comes to his first touchdown in an NFL game, James says he didn't bother rewatching the play.
"It's football baby," the rookie out of Middle Tennessee State told reporters on Sunday. "You play ball, next game."
James has his eyes set on the regular season. First, he has to earn a roster spot among a group of receivers that he knows is deep. For James, the game-winning play from Thursday night is now a distant memory.
"You never can be too high and never too low," he continued. "I've made plays my whole life whether it's the college or high school level. It's football. It's a part of your life. You can't really get too high off of one play when you've got a whole season ahead of you.
"If that was the Super Bowl, then wow, I'm celebrating right now. You know what I'm saying? But it's preseason."
The 49ers have one final training camp practice in Santa Clara on Monday. The team will then travel to Houston for two joint practices with the Texans before the squads play each other at NRG Stadium on Saturday.