49ers training camp 2023: What the first 2 days have taught us

It's still way early in 49ers training camp, but the first two days have left us with some notable takeaways.

On Thursday, San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks was asked what he thought about the new defensive line he inherited, particularly knowing that star edge Nick Bosa was absent while holding out for a new contract.

"We have depth, and it’s not when one guy comes out that you feel like, okay, we’re going to drop off," Wilks said. "No, not at all. So, the depth that we have across the board, inside and out, man, that’s what I’m talking about. Never been around anything like this."

It's clear Wilks is enjoying working with the Niners D-line in his first year as coordinator with San Francisco, and despite him being primarily a secondary coach, meshing in a potent D-line figures to give Wilks all the success possible this season.

The 49ers have concluded two days of training camp thus far, and there are some key takeaways even though it's far too soon to be drawing any concrete conclusions.

Here are a few notable observations.

Javon Kinlaw, Drake Jackson playing like they have something to prove

Two of the Niners' D-linemen should have chips on their shoulders, Javon Kinlaw and Drake Jackson.

Kinlaw isn't having his fifth-year option picked up, meaning he's in a contract year after appearing in just 10 games combined the last two seasons, while Jackson finished last season as a frequent healthy scratch because of poor conditioning.

It seems as if both have some newfound motivation.

Of Kinlaw, Wilks said:

"He stayed here all summer, dedicated himself as far as trying to continue to get his body right. Mentally, he’s in a great spot and just love the way he’s playing violent, hands up front, getting off the ball and the way he’s turning and running and getting to the football is amazing."

Jackson, meanwhile benefits from Bosa being absent, meaning he's getting the primary pass-rushing duties (even without pads).

According to camp reports, Jackson managed two "sacks" while going up against All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams.