Who Should I Start? Jacob Cowing or Jordan Watkins

Wednesday, July 23, 3:30 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jacob Cowing (hamstring) suffered a pulled hamstring during Wednesday's training camp practice, according to head coach Kyle Shanahan. The second-year wideout out of Arizona had a strong spring and is looking to earn a role in 2025, so this is obviously a tough development. However, it is unclear how much practice time Cowing will be forced to sit out, so fantasy managers in deep leagues should monitor the situation. The 2024 fourth-round pick was limited to just four receptions for 80 yards last season in 15 games, but he is a candidate to fill a "gadget" role left behind by Deebo Samuel Sr., who was traded to the Washington Commanders this offseason. With Ricky Pearsall (hamstring) and Brandon Aiyuk (knee) sidelined to begin camp, depth is becoming a concern for the San Fran WR room.

Friday, June 13, 12:31 PM

San Francisco 49ers rookie fourth-round wide receiver Jordan Watkins hasn't been perfect in offseason workouts this spring, but The Athletic's Matt Barrows writes that he has stood out in the way that Ricky Pearsall (hamstring) did a year ago. He took a number of snaps with the first-team offense with Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk (knee) and Jauan Jennings (calf) sidelined, showcasing his speed and fluidity in routes. Watkins doesn't break stride when catching the ball, which makes him an asset on crossing routes that are such a big part of head coach Kyle Shanahan's offense. The 23-year-old also has thick legs and a big lower body, which should help him break tackles and pick up yards after the catch. Watkins had nine total touchdowns at Ole Miss in 2024, and while he probably won't get on the field much in his rookie season, he could be an immediate factor on special teams.