The San Francisco 49ers took the field for their first preseason game on Friday night. The team ended up falling short against the Tennessee Titans, but some good information was learned.
With several position battles underway, it was nice to see the players on the field again. We got some clarity about a few spots, but there are still several questions. One of those questions is how the receiver room will shake out.
We know Mike Evans, De'Zhaun Stribling, and Deebo Samuel will play big roles, but not much is guaranteed beyond that. After Thursday's results, though, things are looking worse for former fourth-round pick Jacob Cowing.
49ers Urged to Part with Cowing Ahead of Week 1
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Moe Moton of Bleacher Report recently came up with one player that each team should cut. For the 49ers, Moton went with Cowing.
Cowing was drafted in the fourth round in 2024 and didn't get many chances as a rookie. Cowing played in 15 games that year but ended with just four catches for 80 yards.
Then, Cowing missed the entire 2025 season due to injury. The shifty receiver is injured again and didn't see the field Thursday.
"After a quiet rookie campaign with four catches for 80 yards, Jacob Cowing missed the entire 2025 season because of a hamstring injury," Moton explained. "With new faces in the 49ers' receiver room, he's likely in competition with Jordan Watkins for a back-end roster spot."
Moton mentioned that Cowing is fighting with Jacob Watkins for a spot, and after Thursday, that's not good for Cowing. Watkins was one of the stars for the 49ers, catching six passes for 59 yards and also getting some run in the return game.
Cowing's best chance to make the team is by winning a returner job. The problem is, Will Pauling and Watkins have both proven capable of handling that role as well. And Cowing just can't stay on the field so far in his young career
"After an impressive outing in Thursday's preseason opener with six catches for 59 yards, Watkins should have an edge over Cowing if it comes down to them for the last wide receiver position," Moton added.
There's still time for Cowing to impress, but it's running out quickly.
