Why the 49ers’ Youth at Wide Receiver Is an X-Factor

These players could be game changers.

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The San Francisco 49ers' wide receivers stood out as the team beat the Los Angeles Chargers 41-17 in its second preseason game.

The 49ers got standout performances from Jordan Watkins, who had 3 receptions for 41 yards, and De’Zhaun Stribling, who had 4 receptions for 46 yards, along with Jacob Cowing, who had the game's highlight with an 83-yard punt return.

The team's young receivers have made a case for more playing time when the season starts.

Veteran receiver Mike Evans has had a few standout days at training camp but has spent the majority of camp aiding a groin injury.

Deebo Samuel has also had a few good moments during camp, but the 49ers' youth at the position has stolen the show over camp.

Stribling is proving to be a good second-round pick for the team. In preseason action, he’s shown the ability to get open and have strong hands, only having one glaring drop against the Chargers.

Watkins was buried in the team's depth chart during his rookie season after suffering multiple hamstring injuries during training camp. This preseason, he’s shown the ability to be a part of the team's rotation at receiver.

Similarly to Watkins, Cowing has had bad injury luck during his first couple of years in the league but showed his worth as the team has a need at punt returner.

With recent developments at the position, the 49ers need to give fewer opportunities to veteran receivers like Demarcus Robinson, Malik Turner, KhaDarel Hodge and Samuel.

Robinson and Samuel have a place in the offense, as Robinson has shown his value as a possession receiver and a red-zone threat, and Samuel has a strong understanding of the offense and can provide a different element for the team.

Samuel shouldn’t assume a starting position. He can provide the team energy in limited bursts, but Stribling has proven to be more consistent over camp and has a more expansive route tree.

There’s no question that Evans is the most talented wide receiver of the group, but he is 33, and the goal is to have him at his best toward the end of the season.

Also, when the season comes, head coach Kyle Shanahan needs to trust the young wide receivers because they may be this season's X factor.

When roster cuts come around, the team needs to prioritize its youth and players they’ve developed.