Banks claims Hargrave took a “step” before 49ers’ second season originally appeared in NBC Sports Bay Area
SANTA CLARA – Aaron Banks believes Javon Hargrave is ready to make more of an impact in his second season with the 49ers.
The right guard is regularly placed in front of the defensive tackle during practice and believes there is a marked difference from what he’s seen in Hargrave’s play this training camp. Banks have taken advantage.
“Oh yeah, Hargrave is the real deal,” Banks said Tuesday. “Personally, I get pretty much every rep with Hargrave, so going against him made me better. Seeing where he’s been from last year to this year, I think he’s faster. I think he’s honestly probably stronger. I think he took a step up in his game, for sure.”
Hargrave made an impact during the 2023 NFL season, recording seven quarterback sacks, the second-highest total of his professional career. The third-round draft pick also racked up 44 tackles, 25 solo and eight losses, earning Pro Bowl honors.
Hargrave’s first campaign with the 49ers wasn’t necessarily a disappointing season, but it didn’t live up to the statistics of his final year with the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2022, as an Eagle, the South Carolina State product recorded 11 sacks and 60 tackles – 37 solo and 10 for loss.
Now, with a full season working with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek, Hargrave has a new forward duo to work with alongside Maliek Collins and Jordan Elliott. They join Kevin Givens and TY McGill as the run-stuffers.
“Yeah, I think these guys are good,” Banks said. “I think it’s a good combination. You get Grave, you get Maliek, you get Jordan Elliott, you get Givens. I think it’s a good combination of mid-major guys who can get the job done at a high level.
“You trade them, one for the other, and I think they’re all strong. Everyone plays with good fundamentals, good hands, good pass rush. I’m excited to see how it all plays out for them.”
The group that has traditionally been strong against the run has its goals set as it tries to improve its performance in 2023, and Hargrave’s improvement could be key.
