49ers roster: 5 rookies who are under the most pressure in training camp
By Peter Panacy
49ers rookie No. 4: Wide receiver Danny Gray
Former SMU wide receiver Danny Gray could feasibly be ranked higher on this list, if for no other reason than he’s a third-round pick who is expected to make an immediate impact on the Niners’ new speed threat.
That said, assuming Gray winds up showcasing his best trait in training camp and overcoming a notably so-so reputation of having good hands, it’s not likely he climbs any higher than fourth on San Francisco’s wide receiving depth chart, which should already include Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings ahead of him.
Return specialist Ray-Ray McCloud, too, possibly. After all, Gray missed mandatory minicamp with a hamstring injury, and this led to McCloud serving as the 49ers’ primary downfield option.
Gray should find himself in a hot camp battle with McCloud for this role, the latter all but guaranteed a role anyway in light of his return abilities for special teams.
The rookie, meanwhile, is likely safe on the roster even if he doesn’t quite impress during camp, but that could ultimately translate to him being something of an afterthought his first year.
Perhaps the fifth option on a five- or six-man wide receiver depth chart this season, which isn’t an ideal place to be.