5 Most Disappointing 49ers So Far in 2016
By Robert Smith
No. 5: Quinton Patton
Coming into the season, many were predicting wide receiver Quinton Patton would step up and assume a larger role in the offense.
More from SF 49ers News
- DraftKings NFL Draft Promo – Win $150 Guaranteed on Any $5 Bet
- Updated 49ers salary cap space ahead of 2023 NFL Draft
- Deebo Samuel fully admits his hatred of LA Rams
- Brock Purdy jokingly says he’s learning to throw left-handed
- 49ers news: Trey Lance is in the dark regarding trade talk
General manager Trent Baalke did not address the wide receiver position until the sixth round this year, opening the door for Patton to emerge as a legitimate second or third option in Kelly’s offense. Going into Week 6, Patton has just 12 catches for 122 yards.
While this can partially be attributed to inconsistent play from Blaine Gabbert, the fact is that Patton has not done a whole lot to distinguish himself.
In fact, newcomer Jeremy Kerley, acquired in a trade with the Detroit Lions in August, has become the 49ers’ No. 1 receiver even with Gabbert at the helm. Kerley seems to be what the 49ers were hoping Patton would be. His ability to find seams in the defense is what separates him from Patton right now.
Perhaps going forward, Patton will take note and try to give whatever QB is in their under center a target when plays break down.
In order to alleviate some pressure on the QB, it will be imperative for Patton to make himself an available target more frequently.
If he does not, he may be seeing more frequent time on the 49ers sideline.