San Francisco 49ers: 10 players who should see more playing time over the rest of 2017
By Peter Panacy
No. 8: Tight End Cole Hikutini
The 49ers already have one rookie starting at tight end, George Kittle, but it would be wise to bump fellow rookie Cole Hikutini up the depth chart.
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This would be a situational promotion, of course, as Hikutini’s blocking abilities are nowhere near at the same level as those of the veteran, Garrett Celek. And with the team’s offensive line blocking issues, Celek certainly has a significant role.
Still, Hikutini — who started off the season on the Niners’ practice squad — has far more upside as a pass catcher than Celek.
To date, Hikutini has two catches on three targets for 15 yards. Celek, on the other hand, has just six receptions dating back to the start of 2017.
If the Niners want to see if Hikutini is worth developing into a solid receiving option, he should be included in as many pass-catching situations the team can generate.