5 49ers Whose Stock Decreased in Preseason Game vs. Chargers

Not a good look for these five 49ers.

Aug 13, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Tatum Bethune (48) celebrates after a sack against the Tennessee Titans in the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

That's a wrap on the second preseason game for the San Francisco 49ers. They lit up the scoreboard against the Los Angeles Chargers by putting up 41 points.

A big scoring day like that would typically indicate the majority of players saw their stock increase. But there were five 49ers whose stock decreased against the Chargers. Let's dive into it.

Robert Jones

The moment rookie Carver Willis started the game at left guard, it immediately lowered Robert Jones' stock. He got the start in the preseason opener and was receiving a lot of the starting reps in practice.

However, now that Willis is getting a closer look, it's hurting his chances. And speaking of hurt, that's why Jones didn't play against the Chargers. Kyle Shanahan said he has an undisclosed injury.

He'll likely be out of the preseason finale as well. His stock didn't decrease a bit; it took a massive hit when Willis got an extensive look and his injury derailed him.

Jordan James

It's getting closer and closer for Jordan James to become a forgotten player. With so much time he's missed due to a fractured rib, he's allowing others to bury him.

Not only is it rookie Kaelon Black, but it's Sincere McCormick as well. Both of these players were impressive against the Chargers.

There's no way James will catch up to them now, even if he gets cleared to play within the next few days. If McCormick looks solid again, James will be locked in as the No. 4 running back.

Tatum Bethune

Anytime you're playing in the fourth quarter of a preseason game, it's never a good sign. Well, that's what Tatum Bethune was doing. It's crazy to see a former starter playing so late in the preseason.

And yes, he only started because Fred Warner was out, but he's proven to be a starter. Apparently, this scheme isn't for him. Otherwise, he wouldn't be playing so late to prove his worth.

It looks like Raheem Morris favors Garrett Wallow over Bethune. Just like he favors Jaden Dugger over Nick Martin. The pecking order for the linebackers is as clear as day.

Jordan Watkins

I know he had a big touchdown catch in the fourth quarter, but that doesn't help him after he dropped a perfect pass from Mac Jones for a would-be touchdown in the final minute of the first half.

That alone ruins everything Watkins does after that. One amazing catch for a touchdown from Jones in the first half would've been enough for Watkins in this game.

The level of competition he's going against and playing with in the first half is drastically different. Any plays made in the first half carry more weight than those in the second, so he didn't help himself in this game.

De'Zhaun Stribling

His stock isn't truly down, but this is just to highlight the inexcusable dropped pass he had late in the first quarter. Mac Jones threw a dime toStribling. He would've walked in for a touchdown.

Instead, he miserably whiffs on the catch as if the moment were too big for him. If Stribling is going to receive praise for great hands and tough catching when he runs four-yard outs, then he will be criticized for ruining perfect touchdown passes.

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