The San Francisco 49ers are navigating a challenging offseason, particularly when it comes to their wide receiver corps. With Brandon Aiyuk's time with the team seemingly nearing its end and veteran Jauan Jennings likely heading to free agency, the spotlight is now on the remaining wideouts, many of whom have yet to prove themselves.
One name that's been flying under the radar is Jacob Cowing. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft from Arizona, Cowing's journey in the NFL has been hampered by injuries.
In his rookie year, he made a modest impact with four catches on six targets for 80 yards. However, a persistent hamstring injury kept him off the field throughout 2025.
Now, with fellow 2024 draftee Ricky Pearsall also battling injuries, the pressure is mounting for Cowing to step up and make his mark. General Manager John Lynch has hinted at this reality, albeit subtly.
During the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Lynch addressed the wide receiver situation. He acknowledged the injury struggles of both Pearsall and Cowing but expressed confidence that Pearsall would develop into a "fine player" despite his setbacks.
Cowing, however, received a different kind of mention. Lynch noted, "Jacob Cowing’s a guy that we’ve had, and we’ve liked for a couple years. He hasn’t been able to be on the field much because of his hamstring ailments."
Lynch's comments underscore a plain truth: Cowing has yet to make a significant impact due to his injuries. While the front office still holds him in high regard, there's no denying the pressure on him to deliver as he enters a pivotal stage in his career. If he can't rise to the occasion, the 49ers will need to explore other options.