The San Francisco 49ers just pulled a practice squad move that looks low-key on paper, but let me tell you, it could seriously shake up their special teams for Week 1. They officially added Brandong Codrington, and if starting returner Jacob Cowing isn’t ready to roll, this dude could be about to make a huge splash for the Niners.
Codrington’s Secret Weapon
Look, this isn’t some anonymous player they picked up off the street. Codrington spent the last two seasons with the Buffalo Bills. While his defensive stats were modest, the man was an all-rookie returner! We’re talking about a guy who finished top 5 in the entire league for both punt and kickoff return average in ’24. He ripped off two kickoff returns of 50+ yards and four punt returns of 20+ yards over the last two seasons. One of those explosive returns? It came directly against special teams coordinator Brant Boyer’s Jets, and Boyer witnessed it firsthand. You think that’s a coincidence, folks? The Niners know *exactly* what kind of playmaking they’re potentially getting here.
Week 1 Returner Showdown
So, why the urgent grab right now? Jacob Cowing, who’s been handling return duties for the 49ers, was on the side of practice Monday, battling a groin injury. If he’s sidelined for Week 1, who’s stepping up? Deebo Samuel and Jordan Watkins are the current options. Deebo is electric, we all know that, but the team’s been hammered with injuries at wide receiver lately. You gotta wonder if Kyle Shanahan and the offensive staff really want their superstar wideout handling every single return, risking more big hits. Special teams coordinator Brant Boyer has seen both Watkins and Codrington return, and the word is that Watkins’ return game looks ‘different’ compared to Codrington’s, ‘albeit in a smaller sample size.’ Remember Skyy Moore from last year? Shanahan seemed ‘enamored’ with how Moore ‘hit the hole recklessly.’ That’s the kind of fearless, game-changing ability they are clearly chasing.
The good news is the 49ers have options. They can elevate Codrington from the practice squad up to three times without committing long-term. If he absolutely lights it up, then they’ll be forced to sign him to the active roster. If not, the hope is Cowing gets back healthy. This is a classic 49ers ‘buy low’ strategy, hoping for another big payoff. They grabbed Moore last year, and it totally paid off. A few years back, bringing in Tashaun Gipson was one of the most important moves of the year. They want similar results here, big time. So, keep your eyes peeled for Week 1, because this practice squad addition could be the unexpected spark the special teams unit needs.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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