DeMeco Ryans: ‘The sky’s the limit’ for 49ers rookie Drake Jackson

Wednesday marked the completion of the second day of mandatory minicamp for the San Francisco 49ers, which was moved up one week ahead of schedule following the conclusion of organized team activities last week.

Defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans spoke with the media shortly after practice, where he was asked a question regarding San Francisco's top selection in the 2022 NFL Draft—defensive end Drake Jackson.

Ryans, like many others, anticipated that the rangy USC product would have been off the board by the time the 49ers were on the clock, but was very content when the board fell as it did.

"With Drake, first off, just getting Drake, just happy to have him because we didn't think he would be there at that spot," Ryans said. "So, getting Drake, that was an awesome, awesome pick for us there, and I think he has really great ability. He just has to keep working. He has the ability to get to the quarterback."

Ryans noted that, while already incredibly talented, there is room to grow for Jackson, adding that the "sky's the limit" for the rookie as long as he continues with his work ethic.

"If he keeps working, keeps getting in there with [defensive line coach Kris] Kocurek, and learning from [defensive end Nick] Bosa, learning from [defensive end] Arik [Armstead], learning from [defensive end] Samson [Ebukam], just diving in and really detailing out his job, Drake has a chance to be a really good player for us. The sky's the limit for him. He just has to keep working, keep improving daily."

Jackson is a part of a loaded defensive line room and the significant talent around the young edge rusher should only further his development as he looks to make an impact in Year 1.

Additionally, Jackson had a nice play during practice Wednesday, reportedly forcing a pressure on Trey Lance during a play that led to an interception by fellow rookie Leon O'Neal.