SF 49ers: 3 players who proved long-term value vs. Packers

No. 1: SF 49ers Wide Receiver Richie James

The SF 49ers’ top three wide receivers — Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel and Kendrick Bourne — are going to be out for at least another game, as they’ll remain on the reserve/COVID-19 list after being placed there earlier this week.

While the Niners offense is considerably weaker without those three, their absence at least opened up an opportunity for Richie James to shine in prime time.

And shine he did.

James had his 184 yards on nine receptions, including his first touchdown of the season:

While that was impressive, the fact James never had more than 60 receiving yards in a single game is arguably more so.

Although that might be an indictment against Kyle Shanahan if anything else.

James has that unique skill set that creates separation, even though his shortish frame isn’t going to win any 50-50 catches. And James’ second-level speed was on display during the game, too, giving Shanahan the much-needed deep threat his offense has generally lacked this season.

Exactly why Shanahan has held James back over the past two years is anyone’s guess. But with the shortages the SF 49ers currently have at the position, there’s essentially no other choice but to give James more field time.

Perhaps that’ll carry over into 2021, too.