San Francisco 49ers: Top 5 storylines to watch in 2021 training camp
By Peter Panacy
Unlike the last two years, 49ers training camp in 2021 is going to feature some awfully intriguing storylines. Especially at quarterback.
While it certainly feels like it takes forever to go from organized team activities to the start of training camp, it’s refreshing to at least admit San Francisco 49ers training camp officially kicks off in a few weeks.
Players will report on Tuesday, July 27, and official on-field practices will begin on Saturday, July 31.
Unlike the padless, non-tackling practices during OTAs, training camp will ramp up in intensity and go a long way towards head coach Kyle Shanahan formulating his 53-man roster in advance of Week 1.
Additionally, there will be plenty of high-profile storylines to watch after training camp the last two years created something of a ho-hum feel, given the Niners didn’t have too many massive questions about their rosters each of those seasons.
While we all can agree about the top storyline — we’ll get there shortly — let’s take a look at five of the biggest storylines and developments fans will want to watch this summer.
No. 5: Nick Bosa, other key 49ers returning from major injuries last year
Injuries hang over San Francisco fans like a dark cloud, especially in the wake of all those serious setbacks last year. Yet the hope is training camp will reveal the bulk of players injured in 2020 who are still on the roster are able to return at 100 percent by the time workouts begin.
Chiefly, names like wide receiver Deebo Samuel, running back Raheem Mostert, safety Jaquiski Tartt and EDGE Nick Bosa.
Bosa, in particular, should generate the most interest after tearing his ACL in Week 2 last season. He spent a small bit of time at the team facility in Santa Clara, California, getting some work in while also rehabilitating out in Florida.
By most accounts, he’s looking fantastic and fully recovered. But just how much that allows him to be ready to go for football activities is anyone’s guess. Training camp will help reveal that.
To a lesser degree, there’s a small window of optimism fellow EDGE Dee Ford, who missed all but one game last season with a serious back injury, could also be ready to go in time for training camp.
While doubtful, the chance is always nice.