The San Francisco 49ers made some key additions to their wide receiver room this offseason. They should be in a better place than they were last season when they didn’t have a ton of speed or deep threats at the position.
It’s an interesting thought exercise to think about what the team’s depth chart would look like if the season started now.
Obviously, things can change after training camp and the preseason, but here is a preliminary look at the pecking order.
1. Mike Evans
This one is pretty easy. The 49ers signed veteran receiver Mike Evans knowing he was going to be their No. 1 guy. He’s proven he can play at an elite level for a long time, and while his age and injury concerns are valid, if he stays on the field, he will be an absolute weapon for San Francisco.
2. Ricky Pearsall
When Pearsall is healthy, he can be an elite receiver. We’ve seen the glimpses of it during his first two NFL seasons, but the big question mark is his health. If Pearsall and Evans can stay healthy, and if George Kittle comes back and is his usual self, it’s scary to think what San Francisco's passing offense could look like.
3. Christian Kirk
The Niners brought Christian Kirk in so they knew they’d have a proven veteran deep threat. His numbers haven’t been as great the last few years, but once head coach Kyle Shanahan gets his hands on him, he could unlock his potential once again.
4. De’Zhaun Stribling
It wouldn’t shock anyone if rookie De’Zhaun Stribling ends up playing a larger role in the offense as the season goes on. He will have to prove it first, though, which is why he is behind Kirk.
5. Demarcus Robinson
The Niners were hoping for more out of Robinson when they signed him last season, but he didn’t put up very inspiring numbers after missing the first few games of the year due to suspension.
He’s a guy who could potentially be cut or traded, but with so many injury-prone guys ahead of him on the depth chart, it might be smart to keep him around just in case.
6. Jacob Cowing
While Jacob Cowing missed all of last season due to injury, he’s made a good impression in OTAs. He will be on the roster as a punt and kick returner and could be used on offense with his speed.
7. Jordan Watkins
Watkins’ rookie season was impacted by injury, so he didn’t get a ton of opportunities, and it seems unlikely he will get a ton this upcoming season unless there are lots of injuries.
The 49ers should feel good about where they are at wide receiver. They have a good mix of veteran and young talent and should be able to withstand some injuries when they inevitably come.
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