SANTA CLARA — The 49ers wrapped up Day 3 of their first block of training camp without Brock Purdy, who was excused for a personal matter, team representatives said.
In Purdy’s absence, quarterbacks Mac Jones and Tanner Mordecai saw an increased number of snaps under center. All other players who were expected to practice participated in team drills, including left tackle Trent Williams and running back Christian McCaffrey, who were seen in 11-on-11 work for the second consecutive day.
Wide receiver Jacob Cowing missed his second consecutive practice after pulling his hamstring on Wednesday.
There also could be some concern for injury with cornerback Renardo Green, who had a standout day. During team drills, the second-year pro broke up multiple passes — two from Jones intended for Jauan Jennings and a third intended for Jordan Watkins.
Green pulled up with a slight limp towards the end of practice, after breaking up a 25-yard attempt for Jennings. The young defensive back received congratulations from Jason Pinnock, who was also in the vicinity.
After limping to the sideline, Green took off his helmet and did not return to the field for the final six team reps.
Green wasn’t the only defensive player who stood out. Ji’Ayir Brown notched his fist interception of camp, picking off a pass that Jones had intended for Watkins on a crossing route. The safety jumped the route and ran the ball back for what could have been a touchdown.
Linebacker Jalen Graham snagged the second takeaway of the day, picking off a pass that Moredecai intended for tight end Jake Tonges. Chase Lucas broke up another Mordecai attempt that was intended for Equanimeous St. Brown.
The defensive line also got into the mix, with several players entering the backfield to disrupt the offense, including Nick Bosa, Bryce Huff and Mykel Williams. Defensive line coach Kris Kocurek used several different combinations of players throughout the practice, with the Bosa, Williams, Jordan Elliott and Kevin Givens grouping seen more than once.
The first skirmish of training camp was stifled quickly, but not before Jennings and Deommodore Lenoir got into a little shoving contest. The confrontation occurred in the middle of the practice session, and while the two were seen blocking each other aggressively later, there were no other conflicts.
The “first team” offensive line consisted of Williams at left tackle, Nick Zakelj at left guard, Jake Brendel at center, Dominick Puni at right guard and Colton McKivitz at right tackle.
George Kittle was involved in the offense as usual, providing “immaculate vibes” while dancing to the music broadcast over the practice field. It was easy to know when a fellow tight end made a play, with Kittle jumping up and down in a celebratory manner when Tonges and Ross Dwelley each made plays.
The players have Saturday off, before returning for their final non-padded practice at 10:25 a.m. PT on Sunday.
Download and follow the 49ers Talk Podcast