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San Francisco 49ers: Biggest winners and losers from first week of training camp 2018

By Peter Panacy

SANTA CLARA, CA - MAY 11: LaMichael James #23 of the San Francisco 49ers carries the ball running away from Michael Wilhoite #57 during Rookie Minincamp at the San Francisco 49ers practice facility on May 11, 2012 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - MAY 11: LaMichael James #23 of the San Francisco 49ers carries the ball running away from Michael Wilhoite #57 during Rookie Minincamp at the San Francisco 49ers practice facility on May 11, 2012 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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MIAMI, FL – OCTOBER 29: Richie James #3 of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders is pursued by Vontarius West #29 of the Florida International Golden Panthers as he runs with the ball during first quarter action on October 29, 2016 at FIU Stadium in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL – OCTOBER 29: Richie James #3 of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders is pursued by Vontarius West #29 of the Florida International Golden Panthers as he runs with the ball during first quarter action on October 29, 2016 at FIU Stadium in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images) /

Winner: Wide Receiver Richie James

If there has been one massive standout from 49ers training camp, it’s rookie wide receiver Richie James.

A seventh-round pick from this year’s draft, James was easily on the roster bubble. Especially considering how many receivers the Niners already have in place for the 53-man roster. James would have to stand out on multiple occasions.

And he’s done so.

At the end of day one, No. 2 quarterback C.J. Beathard hit James for a nice 30-yard reception:

https://twitter.com/49ers/status/1022670408326078465

And here’s what Aaron Tan had to say about James’ efforts on day two:

"Observing this practice told me that James would not only have a 100 percent chance of making the roster, but should also have a big role on the offense in the 2018 season. James caught everything headed his way, even when coverage was very tight. He was getting a lot of reps and it is very clear that the coaching staff loves him."

Fourth and Nine’s Eric Crocker also noted James “has been more productive with his opportunities than fellow draft pick Dante Pettis.”

Pettis is safely on the roster, barring an injury or complete meltdown. But James has far more to prove.

Based off the early observations, it appears as if James is making the most of his chances and increasing his stock value for the upcoming season.

dark. Next. 49ers training camp: 5 under-radar players you should watch

The 49ers will have a players’ day off on Monday, July 30 before resuming practice on Tuesday. Be sure to stay tuned to Niner Noise for all your training camp updates and analysis.