49ers: 4 players whose roster value took a hit in win vs. Raiders

The 49ers wrapped up their 2021 preseason with a 34-10 win over the Raiders, but not everyone had a great game. Niner Noise signals out four.

With the 2021 NFL preseason three games instead of four, the third preseason game now becomes both the dress rehearsal for many starters before the regular season, as well as the final chance for players on the bubble to make their case for the 53-man roster.

For a team as deep and varied as the San Francisco 49ers, this third preseason game meant a lot. The typical standard of play necessary to lock down a roster spot, especially at certain positions like defensive line or running back, was raised high. But at the same time, there were some fierce competitions at hand when the Niners squared off for Week 3 of the preseason against the visiting Las Vegas Raiders at Levi’s Stadium.

The backup receiving corps is still featuring several question marks and unknowns, which would have allowed any one receiver to cement a spot. There is a hodgepodge of quality safeties and an assortment of explosive running backs, too.

Not everyone, though, was able to make that claim. And whether because of their own play or stellar performance by their competition, several players hoping to make the final 53 found their roster value hit hard.

Let’s take a look at some of them, and why exactly this final preseason game didn’t give them the security they wanted.