Road to San Francisco: 49ers teammates talk about LaMichael

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- As the 49ers prepare for the super bowl, News10 is focusing on LaMichael James.

News10 went inside the locker room, asking teammates about the former Oregon Duck.

There's two former Ducks who play on the team, Will Tukuafu and LaMichael James. Tukuafu wasn't available for comment, but his 'locker neighbor' Joe Staley was.

"(Tukuafu is) playing really well." Staley, one of the starting 49ers Offensive Linemen said, "(He) does a lot of different things for this football team. Offense, defense, special teams. He's a guy that wears many hats and does them all well."

Staley then spoke about LaMichael James.

"Yeah, he's a cool dude. I think as a rookie his head was spinning a little bit. But he really worked hard at understanding the NFL game. It's a lot different than it is in college and now he's now he's playing at a really high level for us." Staley said.

Other players spoke about James' introduction.

"At first, he was here and he was kinda like, he wanted to play, he wasn't getting to play." Anthony Dixon, the 49er Running Back said.  "I know how that is. You know, I was just trying to give him encouragement. I told him, 'stay on top of your game, dog. And when it comes you gotta be ready.' I think he is. And I think he's just going to get better and better with more opportunities."

Alex Boone recalled the time James got his first NFL touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons, helping the team win the NFC Championship.

"He's just so excited." Offensive Lineman Alex Boone said, "I remember last week when he scored on that touchdown I was so excited. I almost tackled him. I remember running over to him and he just kept saying, 'thank you,thank you, thank you. He deserves it. He's a great player. He's what we need for this team."

Crowded with reporters, James kept his comments directed toward the big game.

News10's Dave De Rurange asked, "Any thoughts on Chip Kelly going from Oregon to pro?"

"I really don't have too many thoughts, man." James said, "You could probably ask me about the Super Bowl, and I'll give you a lot."Road to San Francisco: 49ers teammates talk about LaMichael