Wide Receiver Richie James
Richie James still has a long way to go to cement himself a roster spot.
But check out what Aaron Tan had to say about him during last Friday’s practice session:
"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."
And it doesn’t seem as if James’ efforts were just a “one day” show either. As seen in the video below (h/t Rob Lowder of Niners Wire), James was able to put a nifty move on against veteran nickel corner K’Waun Williams, beating him to the outside and hauling in the pass during the one-on-one drill:
#49ersCamp 1-on-1s: Richie James gives K’Waun Williams the shake at the line of scrimmage. #49ers pic.twitter.com/VbDGhwbUlY
— Rob Lowder (@Rob_Lowder) July 30, 2018
At 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds, James’ best projection is for slot duties at the NFL level. Starting slot receiver Trent Taylor (back) is on the physically unable-to-perform (PUP) list to start camp, so James appears to be benefiting from the extended look.