Two, out-of-work football players stood outside the 49ers’ gates Monday and held signs about themselves in search of a tryout.
At least one 49er took notice: Colin Kaepernick.
“We talked to Kap and he said he’d put in a word for us,” said Nanjee Lovett, 23, of Richmond. “We’re just trying to get anyone’s attention, to get 20 minutes to show what we can do.”
Lovett, a wide receiver, and fellow East Bay native Tracy Clark, a defensive back, stood in the 91-degree sunshine looking to help the 49ers (1-2) end a two-game skid. They figured their services could be of need after Sunday’s 46-27 loss at Seattle.
“Yes, sir. That’s why we’re here,” said Clark, 25, of Pittsburg.
Both Clark and Lovett attended the 49ers’ local pro-day workout last year prior to the draft; neither got signed.
Lovett, a potential receiver and return specialist, attended St. Mary’s-Richmond and the University of Idaho. His 5-foot-9 frame is healthy now after he tore an Achilles last year in the Canadian Football League’s Calgary Stampeders training camp.
Clark, 5-foot-10, wore a grey T-shirt from his alma mater, Washington State, where he played cornerback from 2010-14.
“Been patiently waiting on that phone call. Figured I’ll come & take matters into my own hands!!!” Clark wrote on his poster, which included his name, alma mater, possible positions (DB/KR) and phone number.
On Lovett’s white poster board in black ink, Lovett’s final line summed up their quest: “Hungry for a Opportunity.”
The 49ers could be in need of some help at cornerback and wide receiver in the wake of Sunday injuries to two starters: Jimmie Ward (quadriceps) and Torrey Smith (ankle). Ward’s injury looked more serious and forced him out of the game. Coach Chip Kelly had no medical update on either player, or on anyone else, during Monday’s press conference.
The 49ers currently have five wide receivers and 10 defensive backs on their roster, plus two wide receivers and a cornerback on their practice squad, so they’re not exactly in dire need for help, no matter how much two locals want to offer their assistance.
