The San Francisco 49ers returned to the practice field Thursday with a lengthy injury list, but Brock Purdy continued to provide plenty of reasons for optimism while a rookie defender continued building momentum. Here are the quick hits from Day 8 of training camp.

The 49ers were without several players, including Nick Bosa (soreness), Kyle Juszczyk (finger fracture), Jacob Cowing (hip flexor), Mike Evans (quad), Carver Willis (concussion), Brett Toth (concussion), Jordan James (rib), Kaelon Black (adductor), and Nick Zakelj (elbow).


The team also made a roster move, signing offensive lineman Kion Smith to a one-year deal while waiving wide receiver Colton Dowell.

There was some positive injury news as Dre Greenlaw (soreness), De'Zhaun Stribling (hamstring), and Osa Odighizuwa (soreness) all returned to practice in pads on a limited basis. Greenlaw participated in individual drills before again watching team periods from behind the defense. Stribling appeared to be running at or near full speed during team drills, while Odighizuwa mixed in for some team work.

Purdy stays hot


Purdy continued an impressive training camp, highlighted by a deep touchdown pass to newcomer KhaDarel Hodge. According to OurSF49ers, Purdy connected with Hodge for a beautiful 60-yard touchdown on a deep crossing route, hitting the veteran receiver in stride during team drills.

Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris had plenty of praise for his quarterback afterward. "The Layer King has some really intensive intensity," Morris said. "Today he got fired up, which was cool." Morris also complimented Purdy's command of the offense and communication during practice, noting how professionally he operates while directing teammates.

Defensive standouts


Even while easing back from soreness, Odighizuwa continued showing why the 49ers brought him in this offseason. Per OurSF49ers, the defensive tackle consistently generated interior pressure, forcing at least one errant throw and recording what would have been a sack in live action.


Upton Stout also had another impressive day. The rookie cornerback broke up a pass intended for Jordan Watkins during one-on-one drills, continuing a strong start to camp. Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir added a pass breakup of his own, knocking away a slant intended for Deebo Samuel. Jack Jones also came away with an interception, making a leaping grab along the left sideline after Mac Jones targeted Watkins.

Morris explains the secondary shuffling


Some who watched today noticed defensive backs moving around frequently during practice. Morris said it's by design. He said that the constant rotation is intended to create versatility throughout the secondary. That includes moving Lenoir and Renardo Green into different alignments and even preparing rookie Upton Stout to play virtually anywhere.

According to David Lombardi, Morris said Stout is capable of playing every defensive back position, including safety.

Gracen Halton keeps impressing


Rookie defensive tackle Gracen Halton continues to stack impressive practices. Nick Wagoner noted Halton won one-on-one reps against Robert Jones, Connor Colby, and Jake Brendel while also flashing during team drills. His explosive first step, active hands, and relentless motor have consistently stood out.

It's obviously early, but Halton is beginning to look like someone who could carve out an immediate role as an interior pass rusher on obvious passing downs.


Offensive line remains a work in progress


Jones once again worked with the first-team offense at left guard, while Colby continued rotating with the second and third units. Austen Pleasants also saw additional work inside. The competition doesn't appear close to being settled.

Elsewhere in one-on-one drills, Colton McKivitz continued his steady camp with solid reps against Romello Height, while Dominick Puni also impressed as he looks ready to have a strong third season.

Is Demarcus Robinson a starter?


Demarcus Robinson quietly continues putting together one of the more consistent camps among the receivers. OurSF49ers reported that Robinson hauled in multiple catches Thursday and continues looking comfortable in Shanahan's offense.

Could he be a starter along with Evans? Or will Deebo Samuel win that role? Either way, both will play a lot of snaps.

Dugger getting an early look in a versatile role


One player worth keeping an eye on is Jayden Dugger. According to Nick Wagoner, Dugger received some snaps with the first-team defense as the 49ers continue experimenting with different ways to use the veteran defensive back. Morris explained that his defense includes a "fever backer" role, a versatile hybrid position that requires a player capable of wearing multiple hats. Wagoner noted that Dugger's skill set appears to be a natural fit for that role, while Romello Height and Nick Martin could also factor into the mix.


The role should become clearer once the preseason begins, but it's another example of Morris emphasizing versatility throughout his defense. The 49ers have spent much of camp moving players around the field, and the "fever backer" appears to be another piece of that puzzle.

Shanahan becoming more involved


Shanahan continues increasing his workload as he recovers from a concussion and other injuries from his car accident. The head coach was on the practice field for nearly the entire session again Thursday and has become noticeably more involved over the past few days, another encouraging sign as preseason and the regular season draw closer.

The 49ers have a walk-through on Friday (no media). Saturday, they will be back at practice, followed by an off day on Sunday.

Written By:

Marc Adams


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