49ers vs. Vikings: 4 sneaky-good storylines to watch in preseason bout

Storyline No. 4: Which 49ers rookies shine in preseason Week 2 vs. Vikings?

Samuel Womack was the 2022 rookie star for San Francisco against Green Bay, and his performance was good enough to convince Kyle Shanahan to release the first-year defensive back’s primary competitor for the starting nickel job this season, Darqueze Dennard.

Plenty of eyes will be on Womack against Minnesota, rightfully so. But he’s not the only rookie worth watching.

The 49ers’ top pick from this year’s draft, EDGE Drake Jackson, suffered a shoulder stinger against the Packers but should be on track to play again on Saturday. Before the injury, Jackson was flashing his athleticism to a great degree, recording multiple pressures and even tipping a pass on a near-sack.

Likewise, rookie right guard Spencer Burford continued to show why the Niners featured him with the first-team unit throughout the majority of training camp, and the former UTSA lineman’s ability to pancake defenders in one preseason game will be an interesting development as he matures into a starting role.

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San Francisco’s third-round rookies, wide receiver Danny Gray and running back Tyrion Davis-Price, also played large roles already this preseason, so they’ll be important to watch.

And for the rookies toward the back end of their respective depth charts? Well, names like Tariq Castro Fields and offensive lineman Nick Zakelj are arguably fighting for slim chances to make the 53-man roster.

The 49ers and Vikings kick off Week 2 of the preseason on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. ET from U.S. Bank Stadium.