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Jacob Cowing returns 83-yard punt TD in preseason

8/25/2026

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Summary

Cowing fights roster

Jacob Cowing returned an 83-yard punt for a touchdown in preseason.
He missed the entire 2025 season due to a hamstring injury.
He is a fourth-round 2024 draft pick entering his third NFL year.
Cowing is competing for a final roster spot and the primary punt-returner role.
Coach Kyle Shanahan said Cowing is “making it easier” on the punt-return decision.

Summary

49ers Open Melbourne

The 49ers will open the 2026 regular season in Melbourne, Australia against the Los Angeles Rams on Sept. 10.
The team must trim the roster to 53 players by 6 p.m. ET Sunday.
Rookie running back Kaelon Black recorded eight carries for 33 yards in his preseason debut.
Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling led the preseason in PFF grade and ranked fourth in yards per route run.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL staged its first regular-season International Series game in London on October 28 2007—when the New York Giants beat the Miami Dolphins before 85,000 fans—the league began annual overseas contests that grew European viewership. Building on that model, the 49ers, led by Kyle Shanahan, now trim their roster for a 2026 season opener in Melbourne, extending the league’s global push.

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Cowing fights roster

Jacob Cowing returned an 83-yard punt for a touchdown in preseason.
He missed the entire 2025 season due to a hamstring injury.
He is a fourth-round 2024 draft pick entering his third NFL year.
Cowing is competing for a final roster spot and the primary punt-returner role.
Coach Kyle Shanahan said Cowing is “making it easier” on the punt-return decision.

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