Heading down to Southern California for the first time in the 2024 season, the San Francisco 49ers will be shorthanded when it comes to pass catchers.

With Christian McCaffrey already on the injured reserve, Deebo Samuel has been ruled out due to injury for Week 3 in Los Angeles. Along with McCaffrey and Samuel, the 49ers could also be missing tight end George Kittle due to a hamstring injury.

With multiple playmakers potentially sidelined, Kyle Shanahan and Brock Purdy will need a player to step up on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.

Behind Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings, rookie Jacob Cowing is a candidate to see an increased role. On Friday, Shanahan was asked about Cowing during his press conference after practice in Santa Clara. The 49ers head coach didn’t reveal much when it came to Cowing’s potential role for Sunday.

Possibly. He’s got more opportunities with guys down. He’ll be in the rotation there. Possibly. He gets better and better each week. So, looking to see where he can fill in.

Cowing has yet to earn a target two weeks into his rookie campaign with the 49ers. The Arizona Wildcats product has served as the team’s primary punt returner in the opening games. However, Cowing did fumble a muffed punt during the 49ers’ loss to the Vikings in Week 2.

The fourth-round pick impressed in the preseason, recording seven catches for 90 yards and a touchdown. Cowing also picked up 19 yards on a single rush in the preseason.

The 49ers are set to meet the Rams on Sunday at 1:25 p.m. PT at SoFi Stadium.