Though the San Francisco 49ers have been far from perfect thus far in training camp, they have excelled in one unique category: nicknames. Just in the last few days, quarterback Brock Purdy has been dubbed the “Layer King” by defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, and rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling earned the moniker “The Flyin’ Hawaiian” from quarterback Mac Jones.
The aliases are about as sound as can be, and there’s a decent chance that this team’s success will hinge on how well one can throw the ball to the other.
The wide receiver room has already been a carousel. Ricky Pearsall’s season-ending injury definitely shook up the pecking order, and numerous others have already sat out multiple practices due to soft-tissue ailments. Veterans like Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel, Christian Kirk, and Demarcus Robinson will be expected to spearhead the air attack, followed by younger, unproven players like Stribling, Jacob Cowing, and Jordan Watkins.
While the hope is that everyone stays healthy, there’s a good chance Purdy finds himself throwing to a slew of different pass catchers this year.
If the Niner veterans show their age and force Stribling to the top of the depth chart (which is not an unrealistic outcome), then the connection between him and Purdy may determine how far this team can go.
Stribling continues to prove 49ers right in training camp
Purdy has already talked about how impressive Stribling has been so far. Many have said he hasn't shown his inexperience, and the Niners certainly made a similar statement when they surprisingly snagged him in the second round of the NFL Draft.
The Ole Miss product has already shown off his lethal combination of speed, run-blocking abilities, and size. He is doing everything he can to prove he belongs in coach Kyle Shanahan's offense.
Purdy and Stribling must establish a connection because there’s a chance he will be the top dog next season. Evans could opt out of his contract after this season, and Samuel is only signed to a one-year deal. Given the murkiness surrounding Pearsall's future with the 49ers, the connection between the Layer King and the Flyin' Hawaiian could determine this team's level of relevance for years to come.
Hopefully the two nicknames are just a hint at what's to come this season. As of now, Stribling is still a question mark, having never played in a professional game. However, he is showing all the early signs of a budding star.
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