Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo continues to work his way back from a torn ACL. As he rehabs, he is studying up on some of the newest San Francisco 49ers — rookie wide receivers Deebo Samuel and Jalen Hurd.
The 49ers used second- and third-round picks on the selections, which give Garoppolo some added weapons on offense. He hasn't met either receiver yet but has already learned plenty about his new teammates.
Garoppolo joined ESPN's NFL Live on Wednesday and discussed the team's newest receiving threats.
"I'm learning more and more (about them) each day," Garoppolo said. "It sounded like they came in and had a good rookie minicamp this past weekend. I've been talking to coaches who were out there with them and watching their routes on tape and all that stuff.
"They're two very different receivers, but they'll help us in different ways. It's exciting to have that type of skill coming out of college and both of them look like they can run after the catch very well."
The 49ers already have a potent receiving threat in George Kittle, who last season set an NFL single-season record for receiving yards by a tight end. Garoppoolo was asked to identify what his Pro Bowl tight end does best.
"I think it's a mixture," he responded. "Obviously, the pass game is what he gets recognized for; breaking records, and just yards after the catch and all that. But his run blocking goes very unnoticed. It's not the prettiest thing in the world, but it's one of those crucial things that helps our run game, which helps our play action, which gets him open. It's all tied together.
"Kyle (Shanahan) does a great job of putting us in those good opportunities and good situations to be successful. All I have to do is put the ball in George's hands. He's something else once he gets it in his hands."
One rookie who Garoppolo has briefly met is this year's No. 2 overall draft pick, defensive end Nick Bosa. Fox Business Network host Stuart Varney asked Garoppolo about the former Buckeye's controversial social media activity and if he will take issue with Bosa's politics.
"Not in the locker room," Garoppolo responded via Bay Area News Group. "Those type of things aren't even discussed. Once you get into the facility, it's all about football, it's all about being a good teammate and putting the team first."
H/t to Samuel Bonilla for the find
