San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Colton McKivitz was glad to see a couple of familiar faces back on the practice field Sunday. Christian McCaffrey returned to practice after a planned absence, while tight end George Kittle continued his impressive recovery from the Achilles injury he suffered in January. McKivitz said having McCaffrey back in the huddle immediately brought another level of energy to the offense.
"It's nice to see them back in," McKivitz told reporters. "Christian has a little more speed and just another level of excitement in the huddle when you've got a guy like him that's in there."
While McCaffrey's return was encouraging, Kittle's presence continues to stand out given how quickly he's worked his way back from a significant knee injury. McKivitz has watched Kittle's preparation up close and believes Kittle's return reflects the veteran tight end's commitment to taking care of his body.
"It just shows what a professional he is," McKivitz said. "The amount of money, the amount of time he puts into his body."
McKivitz pointed to Kittle as an example for younger players trying to establish themselves in the NFL.
"He leaves no stone unturned on another way that he can get his body ready to go," McKivitz added. "It shows the type of person he is, how much he wants to play and what it means to him."
McKivitz likes what he sees from Kaelon Black
The 49ers' right tackle was also asked about rookie running back Kaelon Black and the impact his decisive running style can have on the offensive line. Black has shown a willingness to hit the hole quickly rather than hesitate in the backfield, something McKivitz believes can make life easier for the blockers in front of him.
"When you get a running back who's hitting the hole faster than kind of what you're expecting, usually you can feel the timing within a play," McKivitz said. "And when he's beating you there and slashing defenders instead of shaking in the hole, it makes it a lot easier on us."
That aggressive style was on display Sunday when Black collided with center Jake Brendel on a run. McKivitz wasn't concerned.
"Collisions happen," he said. "As long as he's running hard, tell him to maybe miss him next time. But I'm not telling him to change anything. Keep running hard."
For an offensive line that is trying to establish consistency heading into the season, having a back who makes decisive reads can help keep the timing of the run game intact. McKivitz also credited the consistency he's developed with right guard Dominick Puni, who has been beside him for the past three seasons.
"When you can have someone next to you for three years now, build consistency, that relationship, I know what he's doing. He knows what I'm going to do," McKivitz said. "I'm excited for this year again," he said. "It's going to be an exciting year for me and him."
More info on: Kaelon Black, Jake Brendel, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey, Colton McKivitz, Dominick Puni
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