The San Francisco 49ers began padded practices on Monday, marking the first day where offensive line/defensive play and the run game could truly start getting evaluated, as the team conducted 1-on-1s to go with the regular team drills, while implementing some move-the-ball periods as well.
With 1-on-1s on display, there were some true standouts, but also some disappointing performances that left more to be desired over the remainder of training camp.
Whose stock has dropped after Day 1 of padded practices for the 49ers?
Spencer Burford
Burford came into training camp at an all-time high, with offensive line coach Chris Foerster publicly declaring that he wouldn't field competition for the right guard spot, as he did last year in the rotation with Daniel Brunskill.
However, on Day 1 of pads, Burford struggled in 1-on-1s, losing three reps, although he did go up against Arik Armstead on a few plays.
Still, the right guard did have some difficulties anchoring, and his pass protection this season will have an even bigger emphasis, given the placement of Colton McKivitz at right tackle instead of Mike McGlinchey.
Burford can be a difference maker when reaching his potential, but needs to be consistent in pass protection, and that wasn't there during 1-on-1s Monday.
Clelin Ferrell
Ferrell was the other player who saw his stock drop on Monday, as he disappointed in 1-on-1s as well, a drill that usually favors defensive linemen.
Ferrell lost three reps at defensive end to Colton McKivitz, Leroy Watson, and Jaylon Moore, and didn't showcase great pass-rushing moves to complement his size.
He may provide value as a run defender, but has to be more consistent as a pass rusher.
On the plus side, Ferrell did record a strip-sack of Brock Purdy in move-the-ball, but didn't draw a great reaction from Kyle Shanahan, as quarterbacks aren't supposed to be hit in training camp, and this specific one is coming off an injury to that arm.
Of course, it's only one day, and there are so many reps that you can grade, but these two didn't have the best first day of pads, and will be important to monitor on Tuesday.
- Rohan Chakravarthi
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Written by:Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
