The San Francisco 49ers scored an undramatic 38-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. It could have been cleaner, but the Niners won, and in the process, they may have removed what seemed like an urgent need at the trade deadline thanks to Jordan Watkins.
Watkins led the Niners with 86 receiving yards on four receptions, including a 37-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Brock Purdy. The play spoke volumes about the growing connection with his quarterback, as it was a third down and Purdy had options that would have given the Niners a first down, but he took a shot on Watkins deep instead, knowing he was in one-on-one coverage.
Needless to say, it paid off with a score that all but iced the game.
☝️st touchdown catch for Watkins
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) November 8, 2026
📺: FOX pic.twitter.com/kkNhIvtrtJ
San Francisco was without Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel on Sunday, so Watkins was forced into a larger role. While it was a question earlier this season whether he would be able to rise to the challenge, it is clear he is gaining confidence each week, and he is earning Purdy's trust.
Jordan Watkins is proving to be the very thing the 49ers have been seeking on the trade market
The Niners might still feel the need to address the wide receiver room, especially since Christian Kirk just went back on the IR after being active for just one game, but don't expect a massive move. They may be content to go with Watkins, Brandin Cooks, Demarcus Robinson, Jacob Cowing, and KhaDarel Hodge for the time being as they wait for Evans and Samuel to return.
There is definitely still a case to be made that San Francisco could use someone like Indianapolis Colts veteran Keenan Allen. It may be smart to have a little more insurance at the position, especially if Evans or Samuel get hurt again after coming back.
Still, Watkins may remove the need for a big splash like trying to pry Garrett Wilson from the New York Jets or something of that nature. While a move like that would be exciting, San Francisco may not have the need.
Watkins is also proving that he could potentially be an even bigger part of the offense next season, especially since there is a chance Deebo Samuel could depart in free agency. The Niners obviously aren't thinking about that right now, but the emergence of Watkins is positive for a host of reasons.
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