Also on hand was 49ers defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, a first-round selection out of Stanford in 2017.
Among the main attractions was wide receiver J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, who reportedly clocked a 4.49-second 40-yard dash. Welker and Sowers likely attended to evaluate the 6-foot-2 receiver as a potential option for the 49ers, who still seak a big threat in the red zone.
Hightower's presence could be an indication that the 49ers might be interested in punter Jake Bailey. The team opted not to bring back former fifth-round pick Bradley Pinion, who signed a four-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but did sign former Green Bay Packers punter Justin Vogel as a potential replacement.
Below are the former Stanford players who took part in Thursday's pro day:
- Joey Alfieri, LB
- J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, WR
- Jake Bailey, P
- Isaiah Brandt-Sims, WR
- Jesse Burkett, C
- Brandon Fanaika, G
- A.T. Hall, T
- Nate Herbig, G
- Alijah Holder, CB
- Trenton Irwin, WR
- Bryce Love, RB
- Alameen Murphy, CB
- Bobby Okereke, LB
- Kaden Smith, TE