49ers training camp: 5 players who won’t make roster after poor outings
By Peter Panacy
There have been a number of highlights during 49ers training camp, yet some poor performances ultimately mean these five could miss out on a roster spot.
On Tuesday, one of the biggest bits of news during San Francisco 49ers training camp was the addition of a new face at tight end, Erik Swoope, who bolsters the depth chart behind the first-team All-Pro, George Kittle, and alleviates some injury concerns to fellow tight end Ross Dwelley and Jordan Reed.
But to make room on the roster, the Niners parted ways with a promising undrafted rookie, running back Salvon Ahmed out of Washington, who committed two fumbles during a previous practice, dropped an easy pass a couple of days later and was then held off practice reps just before he was waived.
Following an offseason where there were no minicamps or organized team activities, as well as there being no preseason, making the most of each opportunity during 49ers training camp is essential for players on the fringes of the roster.
There have been some good reports, yes. Rookie offensive lineman Colton McKivitz shut down the highly touted rookie defensive tackle, Javon Kinlaw, in one-on-one drills. That bodes well for McKivitz, who is vying for a spot on the regular-season 53-man roster amid a banged-up offensive line. Kinlaw, while it’s not a good look, is safe anyway after being a first-round NFL Draft pick.
But let’s focus back on the roster bubble. Those who are performing well enough during the 49ers training camp practices improve their stock values, but these five players haven’t exactly shown their value to head coach Kyle Shanahan enough to warrant hanging around into Week 1 and beyond.