San Francisco 49ers evaluate preseason performances, highlighting several standouts and concerns
In the 49ers' preseason opener against the Titans, defensive players Tatum Bethune and Bryson Eason impressed, while quarterback Adrian Martinez and lineman Nick Martin drew criticism.
San Francisco's first preseason game against the Tennessee Titans offered a first look at several players competing for roster spots. Defensive end Tatum Bethune recorded a sack and consistently made tackles near the line of scrimmage, positioning himself as a potential core special-teamer. Defensive tackle Bryson Eason logged 24 snaps, disrupted a screen pass and held his own against double teams, earning praise from the defensive line staff.
Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling struggled early with a missed block and a dropped pass but finished the game catching his last six targets without difficulty, showing promise as a reliable hands player. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke avoided sacks and displayed mobility, improving his accuracy as the game progressed.
Conversely, quarterback Adrian Martinez completed 30 attempts for an average of 5.3 yards, threw multiple interceptions and was sacked twice, leading to questions about his preseason role. Offensive lineman Nick Martin, despite leading the team with eight tackles, appeared out of position on several plays and incurred a personal foul, limiting his impact.
Defensive end Romello Height was overmatched by the Titans' left tackle and committed a penalty, while rookie safety Marques Sigle showed delayed reactions in coverage, prompting criticism from coaches. On the offensive side, Malik Turner caught two of six targets for 23 yards and demonstrated the physicality sought from a backup receiver, and Gracen Halton contributed a sack, a tackle for loss and a forced pursuit against double teams, highlighting his effort on the defensive line.
Overall, the preseason contest provided coaches with performance data to inform final roster decisions ahead of the regular season.