The 49ers Draft WR Jacob Cowing in Round 4

It seems unlikely that Cowing will contribute much in 2024.

Nov 25, 2023; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Jacob Cowing (2) against the / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Another wide receiver?

The 49ers just took Arizona wide receiver Jacob Cowing with pick no. 135 in Round 4. This is the second wide receiver they've taken this year -- they also drafted Ricky Pearsall in Round 1. And neither player will likely play much as a rookie even though they're both 23.

Both Cowing and Pearsall primarily line up in the slot, but they're built differently. Pearsall is 6'1", while Cowing is just 5'8". He compares himself to Tank Dell, who also is 5'8" and had 709 receiving yards in 11 games as a rookie with the Texans last season.

It seems unlikely that Cowing will contribute much in 2024 because the 49ers are so established at wide receiver, but it's possible he could replace Jauan Jennings as the primary slot receiver in 2025 if Jauan Jennings leaves as an unrestricted free agent. Just as Pearsall could replace Deebo Samuel at flanker if the 49ers trade or release him next year.

Still, drafting two red shirt wide receivers doesn't make the 49ers better this year, which is a problem, because they're trying to get over the hump and win the Super Bowl before their current core of players gets too old.

In addition, the 49ers drafted a running back in Round 4, which also was not a position of need. The only immediate need the 49ers have addressed so far is cornerback. That's one out of five picks.

So far, the 49ers draft has been extremely underwhelming. Not what you'd expect from a contending team.