San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle gets the blood pumping during warmups during a training camp practice at Levi’s Stadium on Saturday Jul 30, 2022. (Sports Radio Service)

by Marko Ukalovic

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — In the last practice before they strap on the pads for full contact, the San Francisco 49ers were busy working out the kinks on Day 4 of Training Camp at their training facility just outside Levi’s Stadium.

There was grim news to begin the day from head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Defensive tackle Maurice Hurst tore his biceps in practice yesterday and will require surgery to repair his biceps. Hurst will most likely miss the entire 2022 season.

San Francisco was already thin on their defensive line with Hassan Ridgeway out (mild quad strain) and Arik Armstead who suffered a knee sprain and will be out a few weeks according to Shanahan.

Quarterback Trey Lance led the offense out in team drills. During 11-on-11 team drills, Lance showed off his running ability, eluding the rush when the pocket broke down around him. He showed off his strong arm that has his teammates impressed.

The 49ers running game led by Elijah Mitchell and JaMychal Hasty had impressive runs during the 11-on-11 team drill.

However, once again for a third straight practice, the vaunted defense of the 49ers stole the show to the delight of the 49ers Faithful who were in attendance.

Linebacker Fred Warner was the star of the defense with a knock away on a George Kittle reception attempt. Warner also had an interception off of Lance who was trying to connect with Ray Ray McCloud.

Other defensive players that stood out was Tarvarius Moore who had two interceptions himself, one of Lane and the other off of quarterback Nate Sudfeld.

Neither Sudfeld or Brock Purdy, both who are battling for the backup QB spot, looked impressive with Sudfeld having numerous overthrows and Purdy not making quick decisions.

Shanahan said he’s liked what he has seen from Lance during the first week of training camp. “Yeah I think I said the last time I thought he had a really good day. I was very happy with the throws. There’s something we have to get on the same page with wide outs on and that’s what camp’s for letting it rip.”

The 49ers have Sunday off to get prepared for their first practice with the pads on Monday morning.

NEWS AND NOTES: Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw participated in team drills but was limited as the coaching staff is being cautious with him. Kinlaw is coming off surgery to repair his ACL he tore last November.

Offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey participated in team drills for the first time since training camp began.

San Francisco’s first preseason game is on Friday 8/12 hosting the Green Bay Packers at 5:30pm at Levi’s Stadium.