Morgan didn't catch a pass against Chicago on Thursday, but he has shown an ability to catch balls in traffic as well as supplying a deep-threat presence. His exceptional first preseason continued in the 49ers' 34-6 victory over the Green Bay Packers in the second preseason game. Morgan caught five passes for 114 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown pass from quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan.

"I'm just out there trying to make all of the plays that I can," Morgan said. "The ball comes my way, I try to catch it and do something with it. I'll do what I have to do for the team."

Morgan has gotten his opportunity because of the injuries that have limited the practice time of some of the 49ers' veteran wideouts.

Three veteran receivers projected to be on the team's 53-man roster have missed significant practice time due to muscle pulls - Bryant Johnson, Arnaz Battle and Ashley Lelie.

"The lack of consistency in who's out there practicing is what everyone faces, and we're facing a little bit of this," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said. "It gives a chance to some guys who normally wouldn't have reps, like Josh Morgan - he's a great example.

"If that was a healthy crew, he probably wouldn't have gotten as many reps as he's gotten so far. Because of it, in the short period, he looks like he's going to make us a better football team."

When asked if Morgan could win a starting job, Nolan said, "Could? Sure. It would be one thing if the people he's competing with at that position were established."

Morgan accepted the increased workload and he has not let up. He has the size (6-foot, 219 pounds) to catch balls in traffic. And he has the speed (4.47 seconds in the 40-yard dash) to work down the field.

The most impressive thing about Morgan has been his durability. He worked hard to get in tip-top conditioning entering training camp. Morgan set forth on a program with personal trainer Myron Flowers, who also trains teammate Vernon Davis in the Washington area, in preparation for training camp.

Now, there might not be any guarantees about veterans retaining their jobs when they return from their injuries.

"Josh is doing a great job," Johnson said. "His learning curve is better than some might have anticipated. He's picking up on everything and his play-making ability has definitely shown."

CAMP CALENDAR: The 49ers have concluded their two-a-day practice schedule. The team roke camp on Friday, after returning from their exhibition game at the Chicago Bears.