With Aiyuk, Kittle, Jennings and Pearsall out, veteran wideout could clear betting lines in expanded opportunity
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Tonight’s game against the Los Angeles Rams sets up as a big opportunity for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Demarcus Robinson. With Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall ruled out — and with Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle already sidelined — Robinson is suddenly in line for a much larger role in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
Thinned-out passing game
The 49ers will be without four of their top pass-catching options. Aiyuk and Kittle have been missing time, and now Jennings and Pearsall join them on the injury list. That leaves the depth chart stretched thin, forcing Shanahan to lean more heavily on Robinson as one of the few experienced wideouts available.
Normally, Robinson operates as a complementary piece, rotating in for specific packages or situational snaps. Tonight, he becomes part of the core passing plan. That means more routes, more chances to line up in different spots, and a higher likelihood of being featured in designed plays.
Betting the lines
Robinson’s prop lines are modest: 2.5 receptions and 28.5 yards. Those numbers reflect his usual role, not the one he inherits with multiple teammates unavailable. Clearing three catches or hitting 30 yards doesn’t require a breakout performance — it requires him to capitalize on the extra snaps and targets that are likely coming his way.
A few quick completions could push him past the reception total. One intermediate gain or a deep shot could put him over the yardage line. Given his increased role, both overs look well within reach.
Why Robinson is positioned to deliver
- Increased target share: With so many pass-catchers out, Robinson’s slice of the offense expands by default.
- Flexibility in alignment: He can line up inside or outside, giving Shanahan the ability to move him around to exploit matchups.
- Veteran presence: Unlike untested options deeper on the roster, Robinson has the experience to handle an expanded workload.
San Francisco’s offense thrives on motion and creating mismatches. Robinson doesn’t need to be the primary star to benefit — he just needs to be available and in rhythm when those plays open up.
The takeaway
With Aiyuk, Kittle, Jennings and Pearsall all out, Robinson steps into a much bigger role. His betting lines haven’t fully caught up to that reality. At 2.5 receptions and 28.5 yards, he looks like one of the sharper plays on the board for Thursday night in Inglewood.
This isn’t about Robinson suddenly becoming the focal point of the offense. It’s about him being in the right place at the right time, with the opportunity to make the most of it.
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