Kocurek expects Jackson to utilize his versatility in 49ers’ third season originally appeared in NBC Sports Bay Area
SANTA CLARA — Drake Jackson has yet to join the 49ers on the field following knee surgery in January, but defensive line coach Kris Kocurek still has faith in the former second-round draft pick.
On Tuesday, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that defensive end wasn’t healthy enough participate in field activities, but will return as soon as the medical team authorizes it. It’s been a long road for Jackson, who has only been on the field for eight games during the 2023 NFL season, his second year with the team.
“Right now, I think Kyle nailed it,” Kocurek said. “Drake is still in the rehab process right now. It’s just a matter of recovering the knee. He’s working really hard on it. That’s the main thing: getting it back and ready to go.”
The USC product was successful, registering three bags in the 2023 season opener, but then was sparsely on the field for the remainder of their eight total games. Kocurek shared that Jackson has been diligent in the meeting rooms, doing everything he can off the field until his return.
“He’s been here 24/7 since right after the Super Bowl,” Kocurek said. “He was back here going through his rehabilitation process. He is always a curious person in the boardroom, always wanting to know the reasons. He sits right next to me, actually, so he’s kept himself in control, and it’s just a matter of getting his rehab and getting back as quickly as he can.”
Kocurek launched a challenge to Jackson after the edge rusher hit the proverbial rookie wall in 2022, and was designated inactive for two games late in the season and again for all three playoff contests. The position coach was hopeful that Jackson would bounce back in his second season after spending the entire off-season at the team facility.
Jackson has put on muscle weight, often arriving at the facility ahead of his trainer ahead of the 2023 campaign. Kocurek hopes all the work pays off and has vowed to continue helping the 23-year-old capitalize on his athleticism while he’s on the field.
“His strength as a pass rusher,” Kocurek said. “Just his slippery ability, his bending ability, his ability to shorten edges, ability to use his hands to create edges. Very flexible rusher. Versatility – you can line it up in multiple spots to rush the passer.”
Jackson will be competing with several new pass rushers the 49ers signed during free agency, including Leonard Floyd, who the team signed to a two-year, $20 million contract.
