49ers roster: 5 players impressing early during 2021 OTAs

No. 1: 49ers Wide Receiver Jauan Jennings

Just like Javon Kinlaw, then-rookie wide receiver Jauan Jennings clearly struggled because of the lack of offseason workouts in 2020, ultimately resulting in him missing out on the regular-season roster and ending up on the practice squad instead.

That experience under his belt, the 6-foot-3, 215-pound wideout is emerging as a top candidate to secure the No. 3 spot on the depth chart behind the presumed starters, Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel.

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It’s a very good thing because that position battle remains wide open in the wake of wide receiver Kendrick Bourne leaving for the New England Patriots during the offseason.

Jennings impressed during the first week of OTAs, and it’s appearing as if he’s doing more of the same in a big-slot role for Kyle Shanahan during Week 2. Instead of looking sluggish and unfocused during his routes, Jennings has instead flashed his strength and concentration, showing much more crispness with his technique and route-running abilities.

Those should go a long way towards him making the roster this time around.

More importantly, it’ll potentially help solve a crucial need the 49ers currently have: finding depth at wide receiver behind Aiyuk and Samuel. With a number of other wide receivers currently out while mending injuries, the time is now for Jennings to come away as a top candidate.

It’s looking as if he’s making the most of the opportunity.