San Francisco gets a health and roster boost as Week 1 approaches
The San Francisco 49ers received welcome news as they begin preparations for their Week 1 showdown with the Seattle Seahawks: wide receiver Jauan Jennings returned to practice. He was suited up and participating in Monday’s drills, a sign of progress in his calf rehab and, potentially, movement on his contract situation.
Jennings, who missed a large portion of training camp with the lingering calf issue, is entering the final year of the two-year deal he signed in 2024 and has been seeking a new agreement. His return to practice comes amid ongoing chatter about his contract and whether it could impact his role once the regular season begins.
During Monday’s session, Jennings exchanged bro hugs with general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan before getting into individual drills. He wasn’t alone in returning to action. Offensive guard Dominick Puni, who suffered a knee sprain in the preseason; defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos, recovering from his own knee issue; and rookie cornerback Upton Stout (calf) were also back on the field.
A few other notes from Monday’s practice: WR Russell Gage Jr. was on the field, while WR Jordan Watkins was not seen in uniform. Kalia Davis (DL) and other linemen, along with Stout, helped round out the returning group as the 49ers build toward Week 1.
The 49ers have been hit hard by injuries this offseason, so getting Jennings, Puni, Gross-Matos and the others back on the field provides a much-needed boost as they prepare for the regular-season opener against Seattle.
Additional context and analysis
– Contract and chemistry: Jennings’ return is timely not just for health but for possible continuity with a receiver group undergoing change. His contract situation has been a topic of speculation, but the team has indicated they’ve moved on from a previously discussed trade idea. If Jennings is close to full strength, he could be a key part of San Francisco’s passing attack in Week 1 and beyond.
– Health and depth: The combination of Jennings, Puni, Gross-Matos, and Stout rejoining the roster helps bolster a 49ers squad that has faced a string of injuries. Depth at multiple positions could prove crucial early in the season.
– Week 1 mindset: With Seattle looming, San Francisco will lean on a healthier roster to establish tempo and set the tone in front of the home crowd. Jennings’ availability adds a veteran presence to a group that includes emerging playmakers and a strong defensive unit.
Summary
Jauan Jennings’ return to practice marks a positive step for the 49ers as they gear up for Week 1 against the Seahawks. Coupled with the returns of Dominick Puni, Yetur Gross-Matos, and Upton Stout, San Francisco gains much-needed depth ahead of the regular season. If Jennings continues to progress, he could provide a reliable target and veteran leadership for a team that has navigated injuries and contract talk in the build toward a hopeful start to 2025.
Optional notes for publication
– Consider adding a brief note on how the team’s injury timeline might influence roster decisions or snap counts for Week 1.
– A short reminder about the Week 1 kickoff time and venue could help readers plan attendance or viewership.
– Possible follow-up piece: track Jennings’ practice progress across the week to gauge his readiness for game action.