49ers News: Could Kris Kocurek cook with Aur Bernard?
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 11: Defensive Line Coach Kris Kocurek of the San Francisco 49ers on the sideline during the NFC Wild Card playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 49ers defeated the Eagles 23-19. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) | Getty Images49ers reportedly show interest in Nigerian IPP prospect Uar Bernard
Bernard's path to football is unconventional. He was discovered playing basketball in Nigeria just three years ago before joining the NFL's IPP program. Despite having no collegiate football experience, he has quickly generated buzz thanks to his elite athletic profile.
The defensive lineman, who measured close to 6-foot-5 and 306 pounds, gained national attention at the HBCU Showcase, where he recorded a 39-inch vertical jump and a 4.63-second 40-yard dash-impressive numbers for a player of his size.
According to Polymarket Sports, Bernard also posted a 10-foot-10-inch broad jump, a mark that would have led all defensive tackles at the NFL Scouting Combine."
Kyle Shanahan highlights 49ers' key edge in free-agent recruiting
Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reporters at the NFL owners meetings in Phoenix, Arizona, earlier this week and was asked about the value of having a player like Kittle-someone who actively promotes the organization and helps attract free-agent talent.
It always is [helpful]," Shanahan said. I mean, players, they talk to each other all the time, and when you have guys who communicate, guys who've got a good personality, guys who speak highly of the program and things like that, it definitely never hurts."
After signing with the 49ers, Evans confirmed just how impactful that conversation with Kittle was in his decision-making process.
George was the biggest salesman," Evans said. George sold it big time, and he's a big reason why I'm here, just because of the type of player and teammate that he is."