49ers training camp: Power ranking top 5 rookie performances
By Peter Panacy
No. 5: 49ers Running Back JaMycal Hasty
It’s going to be difficult for undrafted rookie running back JaMycal Hasty to make the Niners’ 53-man roster, especially considering the experienced and well-established depth at the position already. But so far in training camp, the former Baylor Bear is doing all he can to make a solid impression.
Sports Illustrated’s Grant Cohn cited Hasty as one of the players standing out early, focusing a lot on the multi-cut abilities the running back has already displayed during practices:
"The quickest and most impressive rookie running back on the field. He got three carries, and each time he gained lots of yards. Hasty is different from the rest of the 49ers’ running backs, who mostly make just one cut per carry. Hasty makes multiple cuts and strings them together effortlessly. He’s fun to watch."
Hasty’s traits and tough-tackle abilities were already a thing back at the college level. His dual-threat potential makes him a perfect insurance backup for veteran tailback Jerick McKinnon, who is working his way back from a two-year injury absence from a 2018 ACL tear.
While Hasty still has a long road to secure a roster spot, the initial results are looking good. And at best, San Francisco could consider stashing Hasty on the practice squad with the understanding McKinnon could leave the team as a free agent in 2021.