49ers training camp: 3 units impressing the most

No. 3: 49ers running backs

The 49ers stable of running backs have looked strong, fast, and motivated during the first few practices.

Raheem Mostert, fresh off a new contract extension, has had a few long runs in 11-on-11 drills. It also appears he is not content with the progress he made as a runner last season, as he has also improved his route-running ability. The wheel routes and swing routes he ran in the passing game last season are now accompanied by routes run over the middle and choice routes as well. Mostert looks ready and willing to carry a larger role in the offense if called upon to do so.

Tevin Coleman and UDFA Salvon Ahmed have broken a few long runs as well, with the latter beating fellow rookie linebacker Jonas Griffith on a long pass play up the sideline. Coleman continues to pressure the interior defensive line running hard and strong on the inside.

But perhaps the most impressive player so far in camp has been Jerick “Jet” McKinnon. Coming off two consecutive missed seasons due to an ACL injury and subsequent setbacks, McKinnon has been the talk of training camp so far. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk, via conference call with reporters, had high praise for him:

"Jet has looked phenomenal, you just would never guess going out there and watching the way he practices, how smooth he is, how he doesn’t second-guess himself, how quickly he answers questions in meetings – all that kind of stuff, you would never guess that this guy hasn’t been on the field for two years. He just makes things look so natural, so smooth."

McKinnon appears to have regained his elusiveness and agility not only on run plays but in the passing game as well. If Jet can continue to impress and stay healthy, he will undoubtedly have a huge role in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense this season.