Jerry Rice, NFL experts see improvement coming for the 49ers

It appears the 49ers will report to training camp on July 26 with the wind at their backs.

Or is that hot air?

Yes, it’s easy to take shots at the 49ers. They’re coming off five consecutive non-winning seasons, two under head coach Kyle Shanahan.

But authoritative voices are warming to the 49ers. John Clayton, for instance. The veteran NFL observer now with ESPN radio in Seattle had kind words for the five-time Super Bowl champions during an appearance on KNBR.

Acknowledging that quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo may have aftereffects from his torn left ACL — Clayton said Carson Palmer told him that after his ACL tear, mechanics were an issue — “you still look at this as being one of the most improved teams in football.

“The key for the 49ers,” Clayton said, “theirs is one of the most improved defensive lines in football. Their pass rush is going to improve dramatically. The question is going to be depth and where they are with injuries.”

Former NFL scout and current NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah forecast the five teams he thinks will be most improved with regard to wins:

1. 49ers
2. Jacksonville
3. Raiders
4. New York Jets
5. Atlanta

By far the 49ers’ biggest fan is the guy who owns all the team’s receiving records. Say hello to Jerry Rice.

“Jimmy G., we’ve got to keep him upright and just keep him safe,” Rice said, appearing on 95.7 The Game. “It’s going to be that supporting cast with the  wide receivers. I think the most important thing now is to get Deebo (Samuel) signed and also get Nick Bosa signed.

“We got our kicker (Robbie Gould), he’s all signed. He’s ready to go. this guy was perfect last year, I think 38-for-39.

“We’ve got the pieces of the puzzle. I think this is the year for the San Francisco 49ers. If we go 8-8 that’s a great season, but I’m sure their expectations are higher than that.”