The 49ers’ bet on Osa Odighizuwa is already looking like a sharp one in training camp.
San Francisco brought him in from the Dallas Cowboys for a third-round pick, and the early returns have been encouraging. Defensive coordinator Raheem Morris had plenty to say about what he’s seen so far after Saturday’s practice, and his comments painted a clear picture of why Odighizuwa fits.
“It’s been fun to watch. It’s been fun to watch him come in,” shared Morris with reporters after Saturday’s training camp practice.
“And then really the first thing I noticed is what's his routine, his daily routine and how hard he works and how much he does for himself to keep himself ready to go.
“So those are the nosy moments you have as a coach where you can ask those things, 'when did this start?' He just talked about his history and growing up and having a brother that played as well and being able to adapt some of those things from different people in the places that he's been.
“Watching him go through his process and how long he's able to be in a building, his mental stamina to stay within the framework of what we're doing and to figure out how good he can be. I really appreciate that about him.
“So, his presence being graced upon us in the building with a great smile, great energy, person that loves football and really comfortable with himself. Those are all really great qualities to bring to a different team.”
That kind of reception suggests Odighizuwa is settling in quickly with his new teammates and coaches. It also helps explain why the 49ers were willing to make the move in the first place.
On the field, he’s expected to matter right away. His interior pass rush ability and durability give San Francisco something it clearly wanted to add to the defensive front.
In five seasons with Dallas, Odighizuwa put up 216 tackles and 17 sacks. Just as important, he’s been on the field almost constantly, missing only one game in that span, and that came during his rookie year.
For a 49ers defense that has dealt with its share of injuries in recent seasons, that reliability stands out. And after this kind of start, the trade already looks like a smart piece of business.
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