A.J. Jenkins' fall from grace continues in San Francisco. Could the 49ers really cut their first round draft pick from just one year ago? It seems highly unlikely, but as the receiver continues to struggle in practice, the frustration with the coaching staff grows. Jenkins did not inspire a lot of confidence after a lackluster preseason debut and now his reps in practice have decreased and could be gone for good.
Comcast SportsNet Bay Area reports that the wide receiver has seen fewer reps both Sunday and Monday during training camp, and when he is targeted, his drops have increased. On Sunday, Jenkins was only targeted once during practice, his lone catch coming in a 7-on-7 drill from backup Colt McCoy. Monday was also a quiet day for the receiver.
Jenkins preseason debut was not strong, but the wide receiver was not concerned. While head coach Jim Harbaugh said that he was disappointed in the way the former first-round pick played, Jenkins seemed less phased saying he would just go back and watch the game tape.
The 49ers have very little wiggle room at the wide receiver position after losing Michael Crabtree for an extended period of time. The team will continue to go back to him simply in hopes that he improves. However, the San Jose Mercury News raises the question of whether or not Jenkins will make the 53-man roster. Several other players are starting to step up and be a decent target, including tight end Vernon Davis who continues to lineup in the position.
Jenkins has done nothing to earn a starting spot on the team or even be named a No. 2 guy. The idea of cutting a first-round draft pick after one year seems crazy considering the investment the team made in Jenkins, but nothing should be put past general manager Trent Baalke. The 49ers have several other strong options at the receivers position including, Kassim Osgood, Marlon Moore and Austin Collie. Not to mention Anquan Boldin, Kyle Williams and Mario Manningham who are all No. 1 guys.
Davis and quarterback Colin Kaepernick are building chemistry quickly, making him another excellent target. Ricardo Lockette is improving by the day as well, impressing Kaepernick on the field. Collie made several nice plays during his preseason debut. The 49ers simply do not necessarily need Jenkins on the roster. If he fails to show that he can step up and be the player San Francisco thought they were drafting, his days in the Bay Area could be done.