49ers TE coach says team experimenting with AI

For years, NFL teams like the San Francisco 49ers have used different methods to gain an advantage on the field. From watching film to analyzing data, NFL teams have been willing to embrace anything that might help them gain an edge. And that includes artificial intelligence (AI).

AI isn't completely new to the NFL. Teams have been using it for tasks such as analyzing player performance and injury risk, analyzing game footage, and generating customized game plans. In February, team president Al Guido mentioned that the 49ers are leaning on artificial intelligence to improve talent assessment, both for football and for soccer.

On Sunday, 49ers Tight Ends Coach Brian Fleury also mentioned that the 49ers are using AI. "We're getting into it," Fleury answered when asked about using AI. "You know, I'm probably not supposed to talk about too much about how we're using it, competitive advantages, and that sort of thing, but yeah, we're getting into it now more than ever. And it's fun.

"I've been fortunate to be here for a while, and now and kind of go through that process and see the evolution. And so, you know, I think I have a good perspective on all that. But yeah, it's definitely advancing quickly and gonna change things."

Asked how receptive the players are to it, Fleury said, "I mean, they're receptive to anything that helps them get better. You know, whatever the teaching tools are, you find something. I mean, even with George [Kittle], who's in year nine, you find something that gives him a little bit of a different insight into what he's trying to accomplish and a different perspective on things, and he's always going to be receptive to it. And I think that's the same for any player."

The 49ers are certainly looking for advantages, but don't expect Kyle Shanahan to turn his playcalling duties over to AI anytime soon.

Latest from 49ers Webzone:

• 49ers Sign WR Chosen; Release WR Callaway
• 49ers rookie defensive lineman "looks behind" in training camp
• 49ers work out familiar veteran wide receiver
• 49ers training camp: Perfect Purdy, Pearsall shines, 2 exit with injuries, other notes from practice No. 9
• 49ers Notebook: Rookie D-linemen learning from Bosa—and each other; Borrowing Trent's plane; That D.J. Jones comparison