Wide receiver Demarcus Robinson's return from a three-game suspension comes at a crucial time for the San Francisco 49ers offense. The team's receiving corps is banged up, with Ricky Pearsall (knee), Jauan Jennings (ankle, shoulder), and rookie Jordan Watkins (calf) all sidelined during Wednesday's practice. On top of that, the 49ers remain without star wideout Brandon Aiyuk and are still awaiting the return of tight end George Kittle.
Speaking to reporters before practice, head coach Kyle Shanahan made it clear Robinson's return could provide a much-needed boost.
"I love getting D-Rob back," Shanahan said. "He was great for us this summer. He's been around the building the last couple of weeks, so it's been good to have him in here, and excited to see him out at practice today.
"I know he's been working on his own while he's been away, and excited to get him back involved."
The 49ers signed Robinson in March, fully aware a suspension was likely. The team appealed the three-game ban for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, but the veteran receiver was still required to sit out the start of the season. His suspension stemmed from a November 2024 DUI arrest while he was with the Los Angeles Rams.
Robinson impressed throughout training camp and now has the chance to step back in as a reliable veteran target—giving whichever quarterback takes the field, Brock Purdy or Mac Jones, another trusted weapon in the passing game.