The San Francisco 49ers signed veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks to the practice squad. It’s a smart move since they’ve already lost Ricky Pearsall for the year, De’Zhaun Stribling for most of the season, and Demarcus Robinson for some time due to a high-ankle sprain.
They’re running out of depth quickly, so Cooks is a great veteran option to have. He’s a long way away from where he was at his peak, but he’s always been a solid and reliable receiver. So if the Niners need him, he should be able to get the job done.
Yet, at the same time, his presence on the practice squad now means three younger receivers will probably have less of an opportunity since head coach Kyle Shanahan seems likely to go with a veteran like Cooks over more unproven options.
Jacob Cowing
While Jacob Cowing should be San Francisco’s primary punt returner for the time being, he has never truly broken through as a receiver. He was robbed of a chance in 2025 due to injury, but even in 2024 during his rookie campaign, he had only four catches for 80 yards.
He has the speed to be a deep threat, so expect him to still factor into the equation. But in short-yardage situations, the 49ers probably trust Cooks more than Cowing since the veteran is a better route runner and simply has more experience.
Jordan Watkins
Jordan Watkins was limited in 2025 due to injury and was actually inactive for the Week 2 game against the Miami Dolphins last Sunday. He may be active for the upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals, but Cooks is an obviously superior option, given his experience.
Watkins just hasn’t yet fully proven himself, and with Cooks ahead of him, it seems unlikely the former will get a real chance to, barring even more injuries, which no one wants to see.
Will Pauling
Undrafted rookie Will Pauling impressed in training camp, and there was even some thought he could make San Francisco's initial 53-man roster but the 49ers decided to put him on the practice squad.
He seemed like a guy who could take on a larger role after the Stribling injury, but Cooks is clearly going to block him from a significant playing time. Pauling already would’ve faced competition from Cowing since they’re both smaller, speedy receivers.
Shanahan has always been hard on younger receivers, and when given the option, he is usually going to go with a veteran over a less experienced option.
Cooks has a leg up over all of these young players given that experience which means there will be less of a chance for them to make an impact.
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