Two San Francisco 49ers rookies—wide receiver Jordan Watkins and running back Jordan James—had been inactive for every game leading up to the Week 8 matchup against the Houston Texans. That streak ended on Sunday for one of them.
When the 49ers released their list of seven inactive players, Watkins' name was absent—signaling that he's set to make his NFL debut against Houston. Unfortunately for James, his wait continues, as he remains on the inactive list.
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San Francisco continues to await the return of Ricky Pearsall, who has been sidelined since Week 4 with a knee injury. Watkins could boost an offense currently led by quarterback Mac Jones, with Brock Purdy still recovering from a toe injury.
The 49ers drafted Watkins out of Mississippi in the fourth round (No. 138 overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. He dealt with ankle and calf injuries earlier this season.
There's more positive news for the 49ers receiving corps—Brandon Aiyuk may have his practice window opened as early as this week, according to head coach Kyle Shanahan. Aiyuk is working his way back from ACL and MCL injuries sustained in October 2024.