49ers Face WR Depth Questions Despite Draft History, Cowing’s uncertainty Looms
SAN FRANCISCO — with uncertainty surrounding Brandon Aiyuk‘s health and the departure of Deebo Samuel, the San Francisco 49ers’ wide receiver depth is under scrutiny, potentially prompting them to address the position in the upcoming NFL Draft. While the team has a strong track record of drafting receivers under the Shanahan-lynch era, the limited impact of 2024 fourth-round pick Jacob Cowing raises questions about his future role.
shanahan’s Draft History and Current WR Situation
Since Kyle Shanahan and john Lynch took over, the 49ers have consistently targeted wide receivers in the draft, with the 2021 draft being the sole exception.Their selections have yielded notable successes, including Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. However, with Samuel now with the Washington Commanders and Aiyuk recovering from a important knee injury sustained last season, the depth chart appears thinner.
Pearsall and Jennings Seek Progression; Robinson Adds Veteran Presence
The 49ers are banking on continued development from Ricky Pearsall, their first-round pick last year, and Jauan Jennings. To further bolster the receiving corps, the team signed veteran Demarcus Robinson to a two-year, $8 million contract. Robinson’s addition provides experience, but the 49ers might still seek to add another receiver through the draft.
Jacob Cowing’s Limited Role and Future Prospects
jacob Cowing, a fourth-round pick in 2024, saw minimal playing time in his rookie season, participating in onyl 11% of offensive snaps. Despite flashes of potential, including preseason performances and a 41-yard reception (nullified by an inaccurate throw), Cowing struggled to climb the depth chart. Kyle Shanahan cited Cowing’s need to become more comfortable with the offense and consistent in practice as reasons for his limited opportunities.
Draft Strategy and Cowing’s Implications
While the 49ers have other pressing needs, especially on the offensive and defensive lines, adding another receiver in the draft remains a possibility. The timing of such a selection would signal the team’s confidence level in Cowing. An early pick (fourth or fifth round) on a wideout would suggest a lack of faith in Cowing’s ability to become a significant contributor, while waiting until later rounds or signing an undrafted free agent would indicate a greater belief in his potential.
Draft Day Nerves for Cowing?
As the NFL Draft approaches, Cowing’s hopes for a larger role hinge on the 49ers’ approach to the wide receiver position. A day-three selection of another receiver could further jeopardize his chances of making a significant impact in the upcoming season.
Given Kyle Shanahan’s history of drafting WRs, how likely is it the 49ers will address the position significantly in the upcoming draft, even with other needs on the roster?
49ers WR Depth: Your Burning Questions answered
The San Francisco 49ers’ wide receiver room is under the microscope. Here’s a breakdown of the key questions surrounding their draft strategy and Jacob Cowing’s future.
Q&A: Diving Deep into the 49ers’ WR situation
why is the 49ers’ WR depth a concern?
With Deebo Samuel gone and Brandon Aiyuk recovering from an injury, the 49ers’ receiving corps looks thinner. They need reliable options to complement their other receivers.
Who are the key WRs the 49ers are counting on?
They’re hoping for continued growth from Ricky Pearsall (their 2024 first-round pick) and Jauan Jennings. They also signed veteran Demarcus Robinson to add experience.
What’s the deal with Jacob Cowing?
Cowing, a 2024 fourth-round pick, had a limited role in his rookie season. He needs to become more comfortable in the offense and improve his consistency in practice to earn more playing time.
How will the 49ers’ draft strategy affect Cowing?
If the 49ers draft another WR early (rounds 4-5), it could signal they lack confidence in Cowing’s ability to contribute. Drafting a WR later or signing an undrafted free agent would suggest more belief in Cowing’s potential.
What’s Kyle Shanahan’s draft history with WRs?
Shanahan and John Lynch have consistently targeted WRs in the draft, with the exception of 2021. They’ve had success drafting Samuel and Aiyuk. Trivia: Shanahan’s father, Mike Shanahan, also had a strong track record of drafting talented wide receivers during his coaching career.
What are the 49ers’ other needs that might impact drafting a WR?
The 49ers have pressing needs on the offensive and defensive lines, which could influence their draft decisions. They must weigh these needs against the need for more WR depth.
The upcoming draft will reveal much about the 49ers’ confidence in their current WR group, especially Jacob Cowing. Keep an eye on their draft picks to see how the depth chart shapes up.
