Cowing's performance boosts his chances for a roster spot as San Francisco defeats Los Angeles 41-17
Category: Sports
The San Francisco 49ers secured a decisive 41-17 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers on August 20, 2026, in a preseason game that highlighted the team's roster battles. Among the standout performances was Jacob Cowing, who electrified the crowd with an 83-yard punt return touchdown, potentially solidifying his place on the 53-man roster.
This preseason matchup was particularly important for the 49ers, who are in the midst of evaluating their roster after losing several key wide receivers, including Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, Skyy Moore, and Trent Taylor. Cowing, a 25-year-old former fourth-round pick out of Arizona, is among the young wide receivers competing for a spot, and his performance against the Chargers may have been a turning point.
During the game, Chargers punter J.K. Scott kicked a 52-yard punt that was fielded by Cowing at the 17-yard line. Demonstrating impressive speed and agility, Cowing ran left, evaded defenders, and raced down the sideline to score. This play marked the first punt return touchdown for the 49ers since 2011, a statistic that adds weight to Cowing's impressive return.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed optimism about Cowing's performance, noting that it could help clarify the competition for the punt returner position, which had previously lacked a clear frontrunner. "I thought it was huge," Shanahan said, referring to Cowing's touchdown. He added that Cowing showed his talent throughout training camp and had finally put together some healthy weeks leading up to the game.
Before his standout return, Cowing had a rough start, losing a punt in the lights during his first attempt, which resulted in the ball being downed at the 13-yard line. Shanahan acknowledged the frustration of that play but praised Cowing for redeeming himself with the touchdown. "He definitely redeemed himself on the next one, getting that 80-yarder. It was a big-time play," Shanahan said.
As the 49ers prepare to trim their roster from 90 players to 53 by August 30, Cowing's performance could be a key factor in his favor, especially in light of the competition he faces from fellow wide receiver Jordan Watkins. The team is also evaluating veteran Christian Kirk, who signed a one-year contract worth up to $6 million but has been sidelined with a calf injury.
In addition to the wide receiver competition, the battle for the starting left guard position continues to be a concern for the 49ers. Injuries have complicated this situation, with Austen Pleasants suffering a knee injury during the game. Other players vying for the left guard spot include Carver Willis, Connor Colby, and Robert Jones. Shanahan acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the left guard position, stating, "It’s going to go down to the wire."
As the 49ers approach their next preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on August 27, they will need to address these roster uncertainties quickly. With several key starters, including Trent Williams, Christian McCaffrey, Mike Evans, and George Kittle, missing the game against the Chargers, the team must rely on its depth and the contributions of younger players.
Shanahan's comments suggest that the coaching staff is still evaluating their options at both wide receiver and left guard, emphasizing the need for players to make an impression in the upcoming practices and games. The left guard position, in particularly, remains fluid, and the injuries to Pleasants and Jones only add to the complexity of the situation.
The 49ers are set to practice again on Saturday and Sunday before their final preseason game. This period will be instrumental in determining who makes the final roster, especially as the team prepares to face the Rams in their season opener in Australia.
Cowing's performance showcased his potential as a punt returner and highlighted the intense competition within the team as they strive to finalize their roster. With the season fast approaching, every play counts, and Cowing's 83-yard return may have been just what he needed to secure his spot on the team.
As the 49ers continue to evaluate their roster, fans will follow closely closely to see how these battles play out, particularly the fate of players like Cowing and the situation at left guard. With the final cuts approaching, the stakes couldn't be higher.
The 49ers will look to build on their strong performance against the Chargers as they head into their final preseason game against the Raiders, which is scheduled for August 27, 2026.