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San Francisco 49ers: 5 Players to watch on offense in 2018 training camp

By Mitchell Blahut

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass against Blake Countess #24 of the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass against Blake Countess #24 of the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /
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SANTA CLARA, CA – AUGUST 31: Ryan Carrethers #90 of the Los Angeles Chargers tries to tackle Joe Williams #32 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA – AUGUST 31: Ryan Carrethers #90 of the Los Angeles Chargers tries to tackle Joe Williams #32 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

The San Francisco 49ers offense is taking form the way Kyle Shanahan envisioned. Given that, which players should fans watch in August?

The offense of the San Francisco 49ers has changed exponentially since last season. From finding their quarterback of the future to adding players that are mismatches against opposing defenses, the offense is transforming into something extraordinary.

However, there are players that fans should pay attention to. Whether they be new on the team or someone trying to keep his place, there are a number of 49ers on the offensive side that deserve to be looked at more closely.

Some of these players are young guys trying to maintain their NFL dream while in San Francisco. Others are newly brought in, whether it be through signing on or being selected. As for some, they’re given the title of “the future” or “savior.” It’s a lot to take in for any one of these players.

So without further ado, here are five offensive players on the 49ers that fans should pay attention to.

Joe Williams

From one member of the defense that missed all of 2017 to an offensive member. University of Utah product Joe Williams is not just fighting for playing time, but his spot on the team. A lot of expectations were on Williams going into his rookie season, and he couldn’t produce during the 2017 preseason. He carried the ball 25 times for 130 yards, zero touchdowns, and three fumbles.

It will be hard for him to find playing time with Jerrick McKinnon (who will appear later) and Matt Breida looking to be the one-two punch in the backfield. Plus with the added difficulty of him fighting for a spot against Raheem Mostert for the third running back spot or even a special teams option.

It’s going to be an uphill battle for him moving forward in camp. However, if he’s looking to stay in San Francisco, then he will need to go above and beyond for a spot.