The 49ers’ receiving corps is perhaps the most unpredictable group of players on the 90-man roster. There’s a clear-cut top three, then the nine spots after that are all in competition for the final handful of roster spots. Our look at the 49ers’ 90-man roster and projected depth chart continues with that receiving corps, which is full of potential and huge question marks.
Wide receiver is a spot where position on the depth chart matters less than just making the team and carving out a role. There’s a hierarchy, but the fifth receiver could have a real role in a way a fifth linebacker or safety does not.
Here’s an early guess at what the wide receiver depth chart looks like going into camp:
1. Deebo Samuel
The second half of Samuel’s rookie year gave a glimpse into what he offers as both a runner and a pass catcher. He was fourth in the NFL in yards from scrimmage over the final eight weeks, and his 16-game pace in that stretch would’ve put him second in the NFL for the 2019 season. His receiving numbers may never be astronomical, but his overall impact makes him the sure No. 1 receiver on the 49ers’ roster.