Torrey Smith was the latest player to visit in studio for an interview on Facebook Live. During the 20-minute discussion on the "49ers Live" set, San Francisco's top wideout discussed the team's OTAs and answered questions from fans.
Smith covered a number of topics, ranging from the 49ers depth at receiver to his impressions of head coach Chip Kelly.
Here's a rundown of the prominent notes from the conversation.1. Evaluating the 49ers receiving corps.
Smith is one of 12 pass-catchers currently on San Francisco's roster, and he has by far the most production at the NFL level. The sixth-year pro had positive remarks for a few of his younger counterparts, including effusive praise for Bruce Ellington.
Ellington is entering his third season and has the opportunity to carve a significant role for himself in the 49ers offense.
"He's really stepped it up. He's playing better than ever," Smith said. "He's always had the talent, it's just about having the opportunity. Right now, it's his time and he's taking advantage of it. Obviously, (Quinton Patton) QP is doing his thing. Eric (Rogers), he's a big guy. He's huge. He's bigger than all of us. He's doing a great job out there as well."
Two of the rookies on the squad, sixth-round pick Aaron Burbridge and undrafted free agent Bryce Treggs, also earned the approval from Smith.
"They're doing a great job, like, a great job," Smith said. "Those cats can play. They're very polished, so you can tell they've put the work in."2. Daily competitions against 49ers cornerbacks
San Francisco's secondary is also full of depth. Including Jimmie Ward, who the team lists as a defensive back, the 49ers have 10 corners currently on the roster.
That has made for some friendly rivalries as each guy attempts to show well against San Francisco's receivers.
"We want to keep it fun," Smith said. "We compete a lot and talk a lot of trash. The young guys are doing well over there."
Smith specifically tabbed rookie fourth-round pick Rashard Robinson as an early standout.
"(He's got) long arms," Smith said. "He's confident as ever. We like to get in his head from the sideline, but he works his tail off. They've got great leaders on that side of the ball so it's no surprise. They're doing a great job."3. Expectations in 2016 with a new coaching staff
The 49ers have held three open practices at this point, allowing media to see how Kelly prefers to run his practices. Smith explained that players are getting acclimated to the up-tempo style and buying in to Kelly's scheme.
"I love Chip, just from our short time here," Smith said. "He's very smart. He's very organized and very detailed. It shows in each and everything we do. It's all calculated. … Everything he's doing makes sense."
In his first season with the 49ers, Smith caught 33 passes for 663 yards and four touchdowns. Three of those scores came from 70-plus yards. The receiver said that he's not satisfied and will be looking for more in 2016.
"I expect more out of myself," Smith said. "A lot of things you can't control, but everything I could control, I didn't maximize. I want to go out this year expecting to have my best year ever. I always feel that way, and I always work that way."
