The San Francisco 49ers' wide receiver room has been through ups and downs throughout training camp. From the emergence of rookie WR De'Zhaun Stribling, the season-ending injury to the frustrating Ricky Pearsall saga and the return of fan-favorite Deebo Samuel, the unit has experienced a dramatic shakeup. Yet, among the constant changes, the same issue annoyingly remains: injuries.
Nearly all the 49ers' receivers have been injured at some point in camp, arguably none more so than Jacob Cowing. As a result, he's been overshadowed by healthier, more skilled pass catchers. Through roughly three weeks of camp, the speedy third-year player finds himself squarely on the roster bubble.
In Cowing's absence, multiple developments have threatened whatever tenuous grasp he had over a roster spot. Demarcus Robinson, considered by many to be a surefire camp cut, has turned heads, likely solidifying his position on the roster. Second-year receiver Jordan Watkins, while dealing with drops throughout camp, has flashed both in practice and in the 49ers' preseason game.
Additionally, undrafted receiver Will Pauling has seemingly taken over the very role that Cowing was best suited for.
49ers' wide receiver spots for Week 1 are filling up fast
All these performances mean that even with receiver Christian Kirk's continued injury absence, Cowing's chances to make the roster have only dwindled. For that reason, he needs to start stringing together big performances, and there is no place to start like the preseason game against the Chargers.
Playing against a serious playoff contender like Jim Harbaugh's squad will likely give Cowing the opportunity to show off his punt-returning skills, which may be the key for him to stay on the 49ers roster. Regardless of his special teams play, the game will be a chance for the youngster to display his speed and agility. The benefits of live reps amp up the stakes, and a flashy performance would increase his role as the 49ers continue to practice.
On the other hand, a flimsy or non-descript outing would leave the door open for the aforementioned receivers, leaving Cowing firmly on the outside looking in.
Cowing has the speed and ability to be an unsung hero for the 49ers this season. But if he does not begin to show it on the field, he'll find himself looking for a new team come Week 1. Even on a team marred by injuries, his chances are looking awfully slim at the moment.
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