The 49ers have seen some fascinating rookie performances in camp and in the preseason beyond what No. 3 overall pick Trey Lance has done.
While Lance’s spot on the quarterback depth chart has rightly been the hot conversation topic throughout the lead up to the 2021 campaign, a host of other rookies have started to emerge as potentially valuable contributors for the 49ers right away.
A couple players could put themselves in the mix for starting jobs, while others have San Francisco’s depth looking stronger than it did going into camp.
Here are the updated rookie rankings following Sunday’s action at SoFi Stadium:
8. CB Ambry Thomas
It’s been a rough go for Thomas as he works his way back into football shape…
It’s been a rough go for Thomas as he works his way back into football shape after opting out of the 2020 college season. He’s been targeted 13 times and allowed 10 catches for 116 yards in two preseason contests.
5. RB Trey Sermon
Sermon didn’t play against the Chargers because of an ankle issue. That’s the reason for his…
Sermon didn’t play against the Chargers because of an ankle issue. That’s the reason for his drop. He’ll still be a big factor in the 49ers’ run game this season as long as he’s healthy.
6. LB Elijah Sullivan
Sullivan did a nice job in coverage again in Los Angeles. While he’s not recording pass…
Sullivan did a nice job in coverage again in Los Angeles. While he’s not recording pass breakups, he’s not allowing big plays after the catch. He’s allowed six receptions on six targets for only 16 yards.
7. LB Justin Hilliard
Hilliard’s tackle numbers dipped against the Chargers, but he did a nice job in coverage which…
Hilliard’s tackle numbers dipped against the Chargers, but he did a nice job in coverage which is extremely important for linebackers. In the two preseason bouts he’s given up 4 receptions, but the Chargers got him only once for one yard on two targets.
3. QB Trey Lance
Lance’s rough start against the Chargers (1-5, 9 yards, INT) was enough to push him down…
Lance’s rough start against the Chargers (1-5, 9 yards, INT) was enough to push him down a couple spots despite a very strong finish to Sunday’s game. Plus, the two players ahead of him have done enough to move up the ladder past him.
1. S Talanoa Hufanga
Hufanga’s play in camp and the preseason has pushed him into the conversation for the starting…
Hufanga’s play in camp and the preseason has pushed him into the conversation for the starting strong safety job. He may even be the favorite going into the last preseason matchup.
