Colin Kaepernick has said that he feels "further ahead" now than he did in 2012.
The San Francisco 49ers quarterback is preparing for his first full season as the team's starter, having replaced Alex Smith midway through the last campaign.
The 25-year-old told the 49ers' official website: "I feel like I'm a lot further ahead than where I was last year. Hopefully moving forward that shows more and more.
"I think we're further along than where we were at this point last year. Our tight ends and receivers are making plays when we put the ball up there for them."
Offensive coordinator Greg Roman added: "I think Colin's getting better at everything he does. He definitely has a live arm. He's a very naturally gifted runner and I think he's got good instincts on when to hold them and when to fold them. It's a great thing."
Kaepernick holds the single-game record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in the NFL.