Arizona Wildcats Wide receiver Jacob Cowing (2) - Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Wide receiver Jacob Cowing stepped up big time over the weekend. The San Francisco 49ers held their second preseason game of 2024 on Sunday night against the New Orleans Saints. Cowing ended up having a big game, making a push for the 53-man roster. Here is a look at Cowing’s performance, and what his role in 2024 may end up being.
Jacob Cowing Vs. the Saints
Cowing was the top receiver against the Saints on Sunday. He only missed one target, and it was arguably an uncalled pass interference. Either way, it was a strong showing whether he completed that reception or not. While fans may say it’s just preseason, this is the part that matters. Young players working their way up the depth chart. Against the Saints, Cowing had four receptions for 51 yards, according to ESPN. His longest reception was for 38 yards. Cowing also had one carry for 19 yards.
The 49ers are currently testing different punt returners as well. Cowing earned the chance to return a couple of Punts. He returned two punts on Sunday for 19 total yards. His longest return was for 13 yards. Cowing is a speedy player who can get open or return and that was demonstrated against the Saints.
Jacob Cowing’s Potential 2024 Role
Heading into the 2024 season, the 49ers know their main receivers. Whether or not Brandon Aiyuk signs an extension, the team will have Deebo Samuel and Jauan Jennings. They will also have first-round draft pick, Ricky Pearsall. Pearsall is dealing with a shoulder injury, but Head Coach Kyle Shanahan does expect him to be ready for week one. After them, the depth pieces are up for debate.
Cowing was drafted in the fourth round with the 135th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Initially, it was a tad surprising they would choose the wide receiver position to be selected here. The 49ers do keep a decent number wide receivers, but still.
On the first unofficial depth chart of 2024, Cowing was fairly low. He is in a risky area to be waived during cut-downs. While his performance in the Saints preseason game may not be the defining reason he makes the roster, it is a big push for the rookie receiver. His performance could keep him as not just a depth piece, but in the running to be the team’s next punt returner.
Cowing the Next Punt Returner?
Of course in general depth is important. Injuries happen all the time in the NFL, especially minor ones that only keep players out for a couple plays. Still, Cowing is lower on the depth chart, but can make a push a punt returner.
Heading into the preseason, Ronnie Bell was the expected punt returner, as well as Trent Taylor and Pearsall. Bell has been struggling with holding onto the ball at times, which is fixable but something the team may need to wait to see. Pearsall is a player that has yet to be seen in game action. Taylor had a strong showing in the first preseason game, but a weaker game against the Saints. If Cowing can continue to prove himself, especially based on the game against the Saints, this is a real option for the rookie receiver. Of course, there is a chance the 49ers use multiple players to return until they find the best fit.
There is also the option for kick returns, but the 49ers are currently looking at some depth piece running backs to do that as well. The same receivers listed as punt returners are listed for kick returns on the first unofficial depth chart. With all of the changes to the kickoff rules, San Francisco, just as the other NFL teams, have to plan their best options for the return.
The next preseason game for the 49ers will take place this Friday aginst the Las Vegas Raiders. Watch for Cowing to continue to push for a spot on the 53-man roster.
