WON Monthly Magazine December 2019

[Sourdough Sam]

TE Ross Dwelley has played multiple roles in the run game this year, how have you seen him grow as a second-year player?


“Ross Dwelley has developed more in a season and a half – You could put him hand in hand with any player that we’ve ever been around. His attention to detail, how he goes about his daily routine, his studying, is really remarkable. You don’t see tight ends play fullback well in the NFL, let alone a second-year player. His versatility is a testament to himself, his work ethic, how he goes about his business and his dedication to being a professional football player.”


What makes FB Kyle Juszczyk so special as a weapon fullback?


“Kyle Juszczyk is a talented football player that is special because of his commitment. He’s a better athlete than most fullbacks, but on top of that, he might as well be a coach on the field. He has a great football feel and is super dedicated, super smart and doesn’t take anything for granted. If you look at his notes, they are probably more copious than anyone on the team and he knows the offense as well as anyone. His weekly routine allows him to play fast on Sundays and be a weapon in both the run and pass game.”


The run game has had success with every backfield runner this year. What do the 49ers do that allows running backs, wide receivers and tight ends to have success running the football?


“It’s a full commitment from the individual player all the way to the position coach, to the head coach. Anytime you have multiple players having success, it’s because there’s a group commitment. There’s no secret sauce. It’s a day in, day out yearn for getting better by the 30 some players on offense including practice squad, the coaching staff and everyone as a group in its entirety. One of the things that Coach Shanahan has been most proud of is having an offense that works together for a common goal and when you see multiple running backs have success, that’s an example of that.”