49ers Rookie Safety Ji'Ayir Brown is Impressing Brandon Aiyuk in OTAs
Being able to impress veterans in practices like OTAs can sometimes be a struggle for rookies.
There isn't too much playmaking going on that really stands out generally, but it's different at 49ers OTAs so far. Rookie safety Ji'Ayir Brown, the 49ers' first pick in the NFL draft, is leaving a lasting impression early on. One player he is impressing so far is wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
"That's my locker mate, so I've been talking to him, watching him, looking out for him. We got him today, and I've been telling him we were gonna get him one of those days. But he's been doing a great job. He's got three or four picks already through these first couple of days. He just comes in willing to work, doesn't say too much, so I like him. I like him a lot."
Aiyuk later mentioned that Brown could have had another interception, but couldn't finish the job. It's already astonishing to hear that Brown has several interceptions so far. In his college career, Brown reeled in 10 interceptions, so the ballhawk player that he was in college is translating on the practice field. It is no wonder why Aiyuk is impressed with him. A singular defensive back, or defensive player, on the 49ers hasn't generated interceptions like that in a practice. At least, not one that is being touted like Brown is now.
This is quite the rave review and praise from Aiyuk to Brown. For Aiyuk to already have a fondness for Brown says a lot. It's also a great benefit for Brown to be locker mates with Aiyuk. He can learn a lot from him and be a student from Aiyuk. The two can easily become rivals on the field as well. Kind of like how Jimmie Ward was with Aiyuk last year, so perhaps Brown is the one that fills that role. Do not be surprised if more players start to come out and give rave reviews on Brown. It's only a matter of time that they will join Aiyuk with his standing on Brown, especially if Brown continues to make plays as he is in OTAs.
"He's getting to the ball as a safety, so you love to see it."
