Newcomer Donald Strickland had a chance Wednesday to do something he has dreamed about since he was little—put on a 49ers uniform.
“It was a blessing,” said Strickland, a defensive back who grew up in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood a block and half from Monster Park. “The 49ers are an organization I grew up with. I always envisioned myself playing for the team.”
Strickland said he sneaked inside the stadium several times as a boy but has yet to step onto the field as a player. The 49ers want him to focus on free safety, where they have not been satisfied with starter Mike Adams’ play. As for playing time, Strickland said it would depend on how fast he picks up Mike Nolan’s defense.
“As soon as I learn it, I think I can be a contributor,” he said.
[Sacramento Bee]
