Torrey Smith is one of the team leaders on the 49ers. Two weeks ago, Chip Kelly consulted with him and some other veterans about whether they wanted retired offensive lineman Anthony Davis back in the locker room. Entering his sixth NFL season, what Smith says and how he feels matters more than ever.
That’s why his comments about Colin Kaepernick on Monday’s Murph and Mac show could carry some weight.
“I mean he’s been himself,” Smith said when asked to describe No. 7 at training camp. “He’s been around more, I would say, than he has. I think he was probably down a little bit last year. He’s been around a lot more. He’s communicating very well with everyone. He seems happy. I think a lot of people are kind of underestimating just simply being happy how much of an effect that has on your play in a positive way.”
The question becomes this: Will Kelly consult with Smith and other veterans on who they think should start at quarterback? The 49ers had more success — albeit very little — with Blaine Gabbert under center in 2015, but if Kaepernick is rejuvenated and sharper under the direction of an offensive-minded head coach, will Smith speak up?
“That’s not really my responsibility,” Smith said. “Whenever they name the starter, which I wish it was sooner than later, it doesn’t really matter in terms of for me. My job doesn’t change regardless of who’s starting.
“They both have strong arms, both can throw on the move and they both can play ball. They are here for a reason.”
To be fair, Smith was also asked about Gabbert. The 49ers went 3-5 in the eight games he started and the 26-year-old tossed 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He didn’t take many chances down the field, but with virtually no running game and a tattered offensive line, Gabbert made some things happen on offense.
“He’s one of the best teammates I’ve been around — great guy, great leader,” Smith said. “I’m happy that he’s getting another chance. We came in together, I came in the same year as Blaine and Kap, so I have all the respect in the world for those two cats. But to see a guy get a second chance, and take advantage of it, I think he proved that he can play in this league, the same way Kap has done it before and proven he can play in this league. It’s about being consistent, and that’s the same challenge for all of us.”
The 49ers take the field for their preseason opener this Sunday at Levi’s Stadium, where they’ll host the Houston Texans.