Shanahan is reserving judgment for now, emphasizing that non-padded practices only reveal so much, especially for physical positions like running back.
James, a powerful runner out of Oregon, rushed for 31 touchdowns in three collegiate seasons, including 26 over the past two years. He's competing for a role behind veteran Christian McCaffrey and second-year back Isaac Guerendo.
"He's doing a good job," Shanahan said of James. "I mean, he is hitting the holes hard. I like how he's been running. Definitely want to get the pads on, especially with the running backs. It's always tough to evaluate guys without pads. Same with the linebackers—really everybody, almost, except for the quarterback."
Shanahan looks forward to assessing James' physicality as camp continues and practices intensify.
"But he's had a good four days and can't wait to get the pads on tomorrow," Shanahan added.
Even McCaffrey praised the first-year running backs—James and undrafted rookie Corey Kiner.
"They've been great," McCaffrey said. "They show up every day, ready to go. They listen well, they work hard. Definitely great additions to the room."
When asked about Watkins, Shanahan highlighted the challenges of adapting to the 49ers' complex scheme, which can often overwhelm rookies. Watkins showed flashes of potential in 2024, hauling in 49 catches for 906 receiving yards (18.5 yards per catch) and nine touchdowns at Ole Miss.
"In these four practices, I thought he's done a good job," Shanahan said.
Still, he knows it's far too early to draw any conclusions. The mental challenges were apparent on Sunday for some of the young wideouts.
"They're spinning right now," Shanahan admitted. "Once you think you've got it, it gets a lot worse the next day. So today was our first call-it period, which means it wasn't scripted, so they have no idea what's coming. I think that showed a little bit of rust.
"I think they're in their playbooks, but they definitely can't be content with it. They've got to get into more, they've got to get more of these reps, and we've got to keep challenging them."
With the 49ers undergoing a significant offseason roster overhaul, rookies like James and Watkins will be under a microscope as the team looks for immediate contributions from its young players. Their ability to carve out meaningful roles early could be pivotal to San Francisco's success in 2025.
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