The San Francisco 49ers are looking for internal support for their depleted receiving corps, and second-year wide receiver Jordan Watkins just delivered. He went off for 60 yards on two crucial catches in their 36-30 win over Arizona in Week 3, a performance that has head coach Kyle Shanahan “really pumped.”
Stepping Up in a Crunch
This breakout couldn’t be better timed. Veteran Mike Evans left the game with a rib/oblique injury and didn’t return, leaving Watkins to fill a big void. The 24-year-old, drafted in the fourth round in 2025, made his two targets count, including a massive 34-yard gain. Shanahan was quick to praise, highlighting a “big seam route that he ran on third down” where Watkins “almost looked like he was going to break those tackles and score.” Shanahan even added that Watkins was “the reason we got three points there on that 57-yard field goal right before the half.” Talk about making an immediate impact!
Asked For The Opportunity
Watkins’ path hasn’t been easy, his rookie year saw just two catches for 26 yards in four games, plus injuries. But this opportunity? He straight-up asked for it. “I’m a competitor at heart,” Watkins stated. “To be on the sidelines in sweats, to me, that’s not being able to compete.” That’s the fire you want to see! Shanahan expects to know more about Evans’ injury Monday, but if it’s a long-term absence, Watkins is absolutely going to see more work until other receivers get healthy. This kid clearly wants the spotlight, and he just earned it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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