Jackrabbit Jenkins has alternative to contribute to 49ers’ stretch run

SANTA CLARA — Veteran cornerback Janoris “Jackrabbit” Jenkins hopped into motion from the 49ers’ observe squad two weeks in the past when known as upon within the workforce’s division-clinching victory.

Coach Kyle Shanahan mentioned Jenkins is just not within the combine to maneuver into the beginning lineup heading into the postseason, however he can nonetheless get into uniform and make a contribution.

“There’s a chance for him,” Shanahan mentioned. “I believe we’re set with our starters on the market, however there’s a chance for him to get into that rotation and get within the group and be the subsequent man up.”

Jenkins, 34, is an 11-year NFL participant with 138 regular-season begins. The 49ers signed him to the practice squad on Nov. 28.

Charvarius Ward and Deommodore Lenoir stay entrenched because the 49ers’ beginning cornerbacks, per Shanahan.

Jenkins was wanted on Dec. 15, when the 49ers performed the Seattle Seahawks. He was elevated from the observe squad to make his season debut with backup cornerback Sam Womack out with a concussion.

When Ward was sidelined through the recreation with a concussion, Jenkins sprung into motion to complete the sport. He was on the sphere for 14 defensive snaps and 14 performs on particular groups within the 49ers’ 21-13 victory over the Seahawks.

Seattle quarterback Geno Smith focused Jenkins twice in go protection. He gave up a 9-yard catch to D.Okay. Metcalf and a 13-yarder to tight finish Will Dissly.

 

“We have been impressed with how he is been right here since he is gotten in, and we’re very glad to have him,” Shanahan mentioned of Jenkins. “We don’t know how it will play out, however he undoubtedly is an choice right here over the subsequent few weeks.”

Jenkins has not suited up for a recreation because the evening in Seattle. Womack and Ambry Thomas have stuffed the backup roles whereas Jenkins stays on standby.

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“With Jackrabbit, he’s a veteran who’s performed a whole lot of ball and he’s studying in our system,” 49ers defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans mentioned. “He’s doing a very good job of selecting issues up and he’s working towards rather well these previous couple of weeks.

“And if we’d like him to be up, he’s able to roll.”

Jenkins could possibly be elevated from the observe squad for Sunday’s recreation towards the Las Vegas Raiders with Thomas listed as questionable as a result of an ankle harm and an sickness.

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