The 49ers offensive line tested in camp without All-Pro Trent Williams
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The San Francisco 49ers haven’t made substantial investments in the offensive line, believing coach Kyle Shanahan’s scheme and a deep group of playmakers can make up for any deficiencies. That theory is being put to the test early in training camp when the one linemen that the 49ers have paid big money to is holding out with three-time All-Pro Trent Williams seeking an improved contract. Williams’ holdout extended to a fourth day on Friday and offensive line coach Chris Foerster said it’s important to get Williams into camp “as soon as possible.”
Crosby, Wilkins give the Raiders one of the NFL’s more talented defensive lines
COSTA MESA, Calif. (AP) — The Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive line is ranked ninth in the NFL by Pro Football Focus and the the offseason signing of tackle Christian Wilkins is one of the major reasons why. Wilkins, who spent five seasons with the Miami Dolphins, finally gives end Maxx Crosby a running mate on his level. The defensive line has performed well early in training camp in 11-on-11 drills. Quarterbacks Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew are being forced to make quick decisions and their passes often wind up on the ground or in a defender’s hands. Crosby says winning football games is all that matters.
Saints reserve QB Jake Haener diagnosed with skin cancer, but remains at camp
IRVINE, Calif. (AP) — New Orleans Saints reserve quarterback Jake Haener is balancing a recent skin cancer diagnosis with his effort to secure a job backing up starter Derek Carr. Haener shared his diagnosis on Friday when he was asked about a small circular adhesive bandage on his right cheek. The 25-year-old Haener is a second-year pro out of Fresno State who was selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL draft. He says he learned a little more than a week ago that he had a form of skin cancer that is rare for people his age. Haener says doctors are trying to determine his course of treatment and it’s not clear yet how it might interfere with his second NFL season.