49ers training camp: Predicting 2017 depth chart at wide receiver

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SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 02: Jeremy Kerley #17 of the San Francisco 49ers crosses the goal line for a touchdown after catching a pass against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi’s Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

No. 3: Jeremy Kerley

Wide receiver Jeremy Kerley, who led the Niners receiving corps with 667 yards last season, returns as the prime candidate to handle slot duties this season.

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2016 proved to be a solid year for the 28 year old, although he’ll have some pressure facing him from down the depth chart.

Height isn’t exactly a 49ers strength at this position, and one could argue a number of shorter players could challenge the 5-foot-9 Kerley for slot duties. Namely, rookie wideout Trent Taylor.

“I’m not worried about my job being [taken] or nothing like that,” Kerley said, via David Bonilla of 49ers Webzone. “I’ve been doing the same thing for seven years. (I’m a) fifth-round pick. Nothing’s ever been set in stone for me. I feel like every year, I’m fighting for something.”

The competition is a good thing, especially considering there wasn’t much of this a year ago.

Expect Kerley to be the top slot option to open up 2017.