San Francisco 49ers: Full 2018 depth-chart predictions ahead of Week 1
By Peter Panacy
Wide Receiver
Right Wideout: Pierre Garçon, Dante Pettis
Left Wideout: Marquise Goodwin, Kendrick Bourne
Slot: Trent Taylor, Richie James
As is the case with the top two tight ends, don’t pay too much attention to who gets the start for the 49ers at wide receiver.
Especially as things pertain to the rookie, Dante Pettis, who flashed his exceptional route-running abilities during training camp and into the preseason. He’ll see his fair share of catches and may also double as a dynamic punt returner.
Pettis’ nine punt returns for touchdowns at Washington set a collegiate record, by the way.
Middle Tennessee State’s Richie James also impressed during training camp and in the preseason. He made the cut for the No. 6 spot on the Niners receiving depth chart, although it’s hard to see him push second-year pro Trent Taylor out of slot duties. For four-wide situations, however, look for James to be on the field.
James can also handle return duties, as can Taylor.
Meanwhile, San Francisco will roll out a starting trio of Pierre Garçon, Marquise Goodwin and Taylor — a group already upgrade over the second half of 2017, as Garçon was out with a season-ending neck injury suffered halfway through the season.
Wide receiver Victor Bolden Jr. will start 2018 on the suspended list for four games and doesn’t count against the 53-man roster.