Safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix still feels like he has a lot to prove. That's part of the reason why he opted to sign with the San Francisco 49ers last week. After today's practice, the defender spoke with reporters and was asked what it's been like joining a new team.
"Really, just getting the respect of my teammates," Clinton-Dix responded, "and just coming out and trying to make a statement, find my role on this team. It's a great organization. It's a great team, and I just want to be a part of it. I'll do anything I can to be a part of it."
Safety Jaquiski Tartt, who the 49ers had hoped to start, remains on the active/physically-unable-to-perform (PUP) list. The team is also without Tony Jefferson, who landed on injured reserve last week. That has opened up an opportunity for Tavon Wilson and could do the same for Clinton-Dix.
A Pro Bowl safety, Clinton-Dix registered 78 tackles, five passes defensed, two interceptions, and a touchdown through 16 games with the Chicago Bears in 2019 but did not play in 2020. He had some opportunities with practice squads across the league but took advantage of a chance to take some time. To him, it was a blessing.
When asked if, during his time off, he ever felt like he might be done playing football, the defender responded, "Hell no."
While Clinton-Dix has been in the league for seven years, he doesn't feel like his playing days are nearing an end.
"Man, everything feels great," Clinton-Dix said. "I feel like I've got 15 years left in my tank. I'm just excited to get back out here and do whatever it takes to earn a spot on this team."
The new 49ers safety has already left a strong impression on defensive coordinator, DeMeco Ryans.
"Ha Ha, he finds the ball, or the ball finds him, all the time," Ryans said after practice. "It seems to have been this way in his career. Throughout his entire career, he's just always around the ball, and he's found it a couple of days here in practice with him stlll new and learning the scheme. It's good to see him out there making plays."
Added Clinton-Dix: "I love this game. I've got so much left in the tank. I've been playing at a high level. I just want to continue to get back out there and show everybody what I can do, just prove myself right. ... I'm enjoying this opportunity here in San Fran, and I want to make the best of my opportunity."