SF 49ers: 4 tweaks Kyle Shanahan can make to roster after loss vs. Cardinals

No. 2: Kyle Shanahan, SF 49ers can use more 23-personnel formations

The lack of wide receivers could be a problem for San Francisco for a while, especially considering Deebo Samuel won’t be back until at least Week 4. And with relatively few other on-roster options available, Kyle Shanahan can at least consider some tweaks for his offensive formations.

Including looks that are typically only used in jumbo run-formation packages.

This would be a 23-personnel grouping, which features two running backs, zero wide receivers and three tight ends. And based on the stats from Sunday’s contest, the SF 49ers were focused on getting their running backs and tight ends involved most in the receiving game.

Why not use those offensive formations more, then?

Tight end George Kittle is a type-A offensive contributor and should be on the field whenever possible. No. 2 tight end Jordan Reed, who had two catches for 12 yards, also flashed in training camp and is still a major threat despite his injury history.

And No. 3 tight end Ross Dwelley is an underrated receiving target, too.

Putting a 23-personnel formation out on the field frequently and often would put all three tight ends’ receiving abilities into the fray at once while not taking anything away from San Francisco’s pass-catching running backs.

Speaking of those players…