Sticking around in the NFL is no small feat. One moment you're the talk of the draft, and the next, you might be scrambling for a spot on the roster.
Under Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch, the San Francisco 49ers have shown they're not afraid to move on from players who don't meet their standards, draft investments be damned. Just ask Trey Lance, Tyrion Davis-Price, and Danny Gray.
A successful NFL roster is a blend of cornerstone players, seasoned veterans, and promising young talent, all pulling their weight.
When a team makes moves in free agency, it often highlights areas they see as weaknesses, putting certain players on notice. So, who on the 49ers needs to step up in 2026 to secure their spot?
Jordan Watkins
Injuries played a big part in Watkins’ 2025 season narrative. He started with a bang in rookie camp, generating considerable buzz.
But once he returned to regular action, he found himself buried on the depth chart, despite the team’s glaring need at receiver. Watching Malik Turner and others leapfrog you isn’t exactly encouraging.
With the arrivals of Mike Evans, Christian Kirk, and a couple of new draft picks, Watkins is under pressure. John Lynch publicly challenged him at the combine, signaling that it's time for Watkins to deliver. If the 49ers pick a receiver in the first round, Watkins might find himself slipping further unless he turns things around.
It’s all about building trust through consistent practice habits. Players can’t just wing it in games; they need to earn their shot by proving themselves in practice.
Jacob Cowing
Draft picks at receiver seem to be a recurring theme here. On a brighter note, Lynch had positive things to say about Cowing at the combine, contrasting his remarks on Watkins. Cowing, a former fourth-round pick, has shown potential, but injuries have kept him sidelined, creating a frustrating situation.
Like Watkins, Cowing offers a vertical threat the 49ers crave. They praised his offseason work, but a hamstring injury threw a wrench in his plans. Now, entering year three, Cowing needs to pull it all together.
Ricky Pearsall
Seeing Pearsall on this list might be surprising. The talent is undeniable, but the injury bug has been a persistent issue.
Drafted with the expectation of filling the shoes of Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk, Pearsall has yet to fully step into that role. With Samuel gone and Aiyuk potentially on the way out, the 49ers need Pearsall to prove he can be their go-to guy.
The 49ers are likely to draft additional receivers, and while Evans and Kirk are on short-term deals, the team needs to know they can rely on Pearsall moving forward, alongside their new picks.
In the NFL, the clock is always ticking, and for Watkins, Cowing, and Pearsall, it’s time to make their mark.