The gang’s all here.
For the most part, the 2023 49ers will look the same as the 2022 outfit, but there are some noticeable differences. Mainly, the big guy in the No. 98 jersey running around.
Prized free-agent defensive tackle Javon Hargrave joined the 49ers for their offseason team activities (OTAs) on Tuesday after sitting out last week’s sessions. Kate Rooney of KRON4 shared a video of Hargrave lumbering around the practice field for our first look at him in the red and gold.
Listed at 6-foot-2, 305 pounds, Hargrave is expected to anchor the middle of the line while being flanked by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead. He signed a four-year, $84 million contract this offseason as one of the top targets around the league.
Bosa is eager to line up alongside Hargrave this fall, as the Niners defense led the league in points allowed (16.3) and yards allowed (300.6) in 2022.
“I was surprised,” Bosa said of Hargraves’ signing. “With all the talent on our team – to add a guy who’s the top free agent. I shouldn’t be surprised with our team, because (coach) Kyle (Shanahan) is always trying to improve. …
“I feel like people give him his due, but people don’t really know how good he is overall. I feel like he isn’t quite talked about in the Aaron Donald, top echelon, with Chris Jones – but I feel like he played like that last year and throughout his career. Him and Arik inside should be pretty fun.”
49ers All-Pro tackle Trent Williams also made his OTAs debut on Tuesday, as both he and Hargraves did individual drills but sat out the team portion of practice.
Considering that Bosa was also in town, the 49ers have full attendance for their OTAs this week as they start to get integrated for 2023.
Related
