49ers: Biggest winners & losers from the 2018 NFL Draft

San Francisco 49ers: Biggest winners & losers from the 2018 NFL Draft

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays an image of Mike McGlinchey of Notre Dame after he was picked #9 overall by the San Francisco 49ers during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CA – DECEMBER 24: Aldrick Robinson #19 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after a catch against the Jacksonville Jaguars during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images) /

Loser: Wide Receivers Aldrick Robinson and Victor Bolden

Kyle Shanahan doesn’t prioritize size over separation, route-running abilities and speed. So it makes sense shorter wideouts, namely Aldrick Robinson and Victor Bolden, were part of the 49ers roster a year ago.

Robinson made sense. After all, he worked under Shanahan with the Atlanta Falcons previously. But he wasn’t a major factor in 2017, registering 19 catches for 260 yards and two touchdowns.

Bolden, an undrafted free agent, wasn’t an offensive factor but contributed a modest bit on special teams.

By adding Dante Pettis and Richie James — receivers, who also have the ability to double in the return game — the chances both Robinson and Bolden make the 53-man roster in 2018 appear much slimmer.

Pettis could eventually take over a top starting job in time. In the short term, he’ll be a special teams candidate and someone making the returning veterans a bit expendable.

James’ addition only serves to reinforce that notion.