Jordan Watkins’ ankle injury derails momentum, knocks 49ers WR out for one month

SANTA CLARA — Rookie wide receiver Jordan Watkins noticeably was absent from 49ers practice on Monday.And he is not expected back for a while, either.The day following the 49ers’ preseason opener, Watkins reported ankle soreness. He was diagnosed with a high ankle sprain that is expected to keep him out of action for approximately one month, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said.The 49ers open the regular season on Sept. 7 against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field.Watkins provided one of the highlights of the 49ers’ exhibition opener against the Denver Broncos with a 50-yard reception. Mac Jones Jordan Watkins for 50 pic.twitter.com/unKkpTQHMd — 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) August 10, 2025 The fourth-round pick from Ole Miss was on pace to be a major contributor early in the season.Receiver Brandon Aiyuk appears likely to open the season on the physically unable to perform list as he continues to go through physical therapy following ACL surgery in November.Veteran Demarcus Robinson is also subject to a suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on substances of...