Jacob Cowing shines for 49ers with 84-yard punt return in preseason
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 1:38 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Jacob Cowing made a significant impact during the San Francisco 49ers' preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers, scoring an 84-yard punt return touchdown. This performance is notable as the 49ers have not had a punt return for a touchdown since 2011. Coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the importance of Cowing's play, despite the game being pre-season and emphasizing the difference in special teams strength in regular season. Cowing recorded seven targets as a receiver but finished with only two catches for 14 yards, indicating a competitive depth in the receiver position for the team.
- •Cowing scored an 84-yard touchdown on a punt return.
- •The 49ers last had a punt return TD in 2011.
- •Kyle Shanahan praised Cowing's impact post-game.
- •Cowing caught two passes for 14 yards during the game.
- •Regular season special teams will be more challenging for Cowing.
- 1:38 PMYahoo Sports — Jacob Cowing could do something for the 49ers that hasn’t happened since 2011
"Remember the last time the 49ers had a punt returned for a touchdown? Jim Harbaugh does, because he was coaching then.
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