49ers Stock Up, Stock Down Midway Through Preseason

The San Francisco 49ers are 2-0 at the midway point this preseason. I don't take particular notice on preseason records but more importantly—I'm more concerned about the execution. Through two weeks, whose stock has risen and whose has fallen this preseason?

Stock Up

Deebo Samuel

Deebo Samuel is looking primed to provide the offense with an immediate spark. The 49ers' second-round pick has made a 45-yard play in every game this preseason whether it's been through the air against the Cowboys or on a run against the Broncos. It's only been a small sample size so far but Samuel is making a case for more playing time in his rookie season.

Raheem Mostert

Mostert picked up from where he left off last season, displaying his speed not only on special teams but as a runner. Mostert scored the first touchdown of the Broncos' game with an impressive 30-yard run in the third quarter. As a running back, Mostert averaged 7.7 yards per carry last season before going on IR with a broken forearm. The 49ers should feel good at the running back position with several key contributors on the roster.

Richie James Jr.

Based on the snap count through two games, it seems like the 49ers are looking extensively at Richie James Jr. and Kendrick Bourne as they hone down the roster. While Bourne is the bigger red zone threat at 6'1", James has been showing his versatility as a slot receiver and return man. With Trent Taylor still recovering from foot surgery, James' ability to play slot and special teams gives him an edge.

Solomon Thomas

The 49ers have been trying Solomon Thomas on both inside and edge spots this preseason and he has looked a lot better in his third season. Thomas has been active against the run while providing pressure upfront when they kick him inside. Considering the defensive line has been without its best edge rushers in Dee Ford and Nick Bosa, it's looking promising for Thomas.

Stock Down

Interior Offensive Line

Up to this point in the preseason, the interior offensive linemen look to be the weakest link. Injuries to Weston Richburg, Joshua Garnett, and Mike Person certainly factor into the equation but if the 49ers are hoping to transition Jimmy Garoppolo back into NFL action, they're going to need better protection up front. The 49ers have also been one of the more penalized teams in the preseason, particularly along the trenches.

Adrian Colbert

Adrian Colbert left the Broncos game with a hamstring injury but prior to that, his stock had already been on the decline as he was ejected for a late hit against the Cowboys. The 49ers are hoping to recapture his ascending play during his rookie season but as of now, it looks like he's currently in third in the competition with Tarvarius Moore and Jimmie Ward at the free safety spot. Colbert could be a surprise cut if he doesn't improve.

Dante Pettis

Take it for what it is but 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has made it known that Dante Pettis hasn't cemented himself as the starting wide receiver. It might be a tactic to fuel Pettis this preseason, but it does make you wonder. Pettis played extensively against the Cowboys but was limited against the Broncos. However, Pettis played all 11 snaps with the first-team offense with Garoppolo under center.

Jimmie Garoppolo

Yeah, no kidding Captain Obvious. Jimmy Garoppolo made his debut against the Broncos after missing nearly a year of football and it couldn't have gone any worse for the franchise quarterback. Garoppolo was 1-for-6 with 0 passing yards and one interception on the 49ers' first two drives as the Broncos' front seven gave him an array of pressures and batted passes. It's only the preseason but as 49er fan, how can you not be concerned about his rusty debut?

• Justin Wong
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  Justin Wong
  Justin Wong has been writing for the 49ers Webzone since 2017 while also running an NFC West blog and podcast called Just The West. Feel free to follow him, or direct any inquiries to @JustTheWest on Twitter.
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