Just a few days after saying the 49ers quarterback position wasn’t “clear cut” 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh said Tuesday that Alex Smith is starting to pull away from rookie Colin Kaepernick.
“I thought today [Smith] had an outstanding practice. I thought yesterday was really good and the day before that, and this was probably his best,” Harbaugh said.
“There’s some separation there,” Harbaugh said via CSNBayArea.com. “Alex has done a fine job. But Kaep is doing a phenomenal job. He is going to be one heck of a talent and one heck of a player.”
Smith’s practice sessions have reportedly been stronger as he gets to know Harbaugh’s system better. Smith is expected to start San Francisco’s second preseason game and it was always seen as a longshot that Kaepernick could start early in the year.
Harbaugh also mentioned the team continues to look for a third quarterback. Daunte Culpepper remains a possibility.