Jacob Cowing showcases skills with 83-yard punt return for 49ers

In a preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on August 21, 2026, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jacob Cowing returned a punt 83 yards for a touchdown. This play came with three minutes left in the second quarter and may have solidified his position on the team’s roster. Cowing, who missed the entire 2025 season due to injury, had previously recorded four catches for 80 yards as a rookie in 2024. The 49ers have been assessing their wide receiver options following offseason departures, and Cowing's performance is seen as a potential bright spot as the team seeks their first punt return touchdown since 2011.

• 3:45 AMYahoo Sports — Struggling 49ers WR may have earned a roster spot with this highlight play