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San Francisco 49ers face preseason roster battles and aging roster concerns
The San Francisco 49ers are navigating intense roster competition and aging veteran concerns during their 2026 preseason. The team is currently managing several key position battles, including wide receiver, linebacker, left guard, and defensive tackle, as they prepare for matchups against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Wide receiver Christian Kirk is facing scrutiny due to recent performance declines and injury setbacks. Head coach Kyle Shanahan noted that Kirk has struggled to be ready for practice following setbacks during OTAs. Meanwhile, players like Jordan Watkins and Jacob Cowing are competing for depth chart spots, with Cowing working to return from a hip injury.
Analysts have noted that the 49ers roster is among the oldest in the NFL, leading to discussions about the team relying on established veterans like Deebo Samuel and Dre Greenlaw rather than a new wave of prospects. This veteran-heavy approach maintains stability but highlights a lack of recent draft success in refreshing the roster.
Entities
Christian Kirk · Deebo Samuel · Kyle Shanahan · Los Angeles Chargers · San Francisco 49ers
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Head coach Kyle Shanahan noted that wide receiver Christian Kirk has faced setbacks and has not been ready for practice. clutchpoints.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The San Francisco 49ers roster is ranked as either the oldest or the second oldest in the NFL. nypost.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Jacob Cowing has been sidelined for multiple weeks due to a hip injury. www.ninersnation.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Wide receiver Christian Kirk recorded 1,000 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 2022. clutchpoints.com