Kyle Shanahan: Young WR took 'a huge step forward' vs. Raiders

The San Francisco 49ers experienced a significant development after their game against the Las Vegas Raiders, with second-year wide receiver Jordan Watkins stepping up. Watkins showcased his progress by amassing 80 yards on four receptions and scoring his first career touchdown. Head coach Kyle Shanahan, when asked about Watkins' performance, highlighted that the young wide receiver had taken a considerable leap forward.

Shanahan noted that Watkins had not received many opportunities over the past, but he had been working hard and ready for those chances. He further emphasized Watkins' growth week by week, mentioning that the first game he played well right away, and this game saw the ball going his way even more. Watkins also demonstrated solid blocking skills, aside from one penalty he wished he could take back.

This performance marked two consecutive games where Watkins had been a crucial factor for the 49ers. Prior to this, he had five catches for 108 yards in the first seven games of his pro career. In the last two games, the 49ers' last two outings, he contributed seven catches for 136 yards and a touchdown. The 49ers were in dire need of a young receiver to break out, and it seems that Watkins is fulfilling that role.