Rookie WR Jordan Watkins Ready for 49ers' Sunday Night Debut Against Falcons

The San Francisco 49ers expect rookie wide receiver Jordan Watkins to make his long-awaited NFL debut on Sunday night against the Atlanta Falcons. The fourth-round draft pick had impressed during training camp before a high-ankle sprain sidelined him in the preseason.

Just as Watkins was nearing a return, he suffered a calf injury before Week 3, further delaying his debut. Now fully back at practice, he's eager to finally join his teammates under the Levi's Stadium lights during Sunday Night Football.

"I thought he's come back from his injury well," head coach Kyle Shanahan said. "He had a real good week of practice. It looks like he's healed. He's gotten in shape. And had a good week, so we'll see if he's up."

Watkins carried no injury designation on Friday, a strong indication that he'll be active against the Falcons.

"It feels good," Watkins said of nearing his debut. "I've been out since after the first preseason game, and then I come back to practice, and then I get hurt again. So it's good to be able to be out there and really just put my best foot forward, and keep stacking these days, and stacking the weeks, and hopefully, get my opportunity."

If Watkins does suit up, he'll be catching passes from quarterback Mac Jones, who will start with Brock Purdy sidelined for the fifth time this season due to a lingering toe injury.

NBC Sports Bay Area's Jennifer Lee Chan asked Watkins what it's been like working with Jones.

"It's been good," Watkins responded. "Mac's been around the league for a few years now, so it's been [nice to be] able to get around a veteran quarterback—not just Brock, but having two veteran guys who have been starters in this league, to kind of understand what it's like to play in the NFL, and what to expect from just elite players."

While recovering, Watkins leaned heavily on his fellow wide receivers. He credits Jauan Jennings, Brandon Aiyuk, and even second-year wideout Ricky Pearsall for keeping him sharp and ready.

"Even though Ricky's just in his second year, he's still been around and been able to kind of guide me, so that way, I don't make the same mistakes that he made last year," Watkins explained. "And kind of just giving me his experience, and it's been able to really influence me in the right direction."

Jarren Duran Praises 9-Year-Old Zayin Berry for Heroic Act of Saving Abused Cat: 'True Example of Courage and Compassion'

Yuma, AZ - October 15, 2025 - Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has publicly praised 9-year-old Zayin Berry of Yuma, Arizona, for his courageous act of saving a cat from abuse at a local skatepark. Berry, who recently earned the title of "ASPCA Kid of the Year," traded his own skateboard to ensure the safety of a helpless animal, a gesture that has earned him widespread admiration.

"I've heard a lot about Zayin's incredible act, and I think it's just amazing," Duran said in an emotional statement. "For a young kid to step up like that, to make such a selfless decision to help an animal in need, it really shows the kind of courage and heart he has. Zayin is a true example of kindness in action."

The incident occurred when Zayin spotted a cat being abused at the skatepark. Without hesitation, Zayin traded his beloved skateboard to the abuser in exchange for the cat's freedom, later naming the cat "Peaches" after ensuring its safety. The young boy's selfless actions not only saved the cat's life but also brought attention to the importance of compassion and standing up for those who cannot protect themselves.

"I just wanted to make sure Peaches was okay," Zayin said in a statement. "I knew I had to help her, so I gave up my skateboard. It felt like the right thing to do."

Duran, who has been an advocate for community service and positive role models, shared his admiration for Zayin's bravery. "It's people like Zayin who make the world better," Duran added. "He didn't think twice about doing what was right, even if it meant giving something important to him. That's the kind of character we need more of."

Zayin's actions have inspired not only the local community in Yuma but also countless others who have learned about his heroic gesture. His willingness to sacrifice something he valued to help an innocent animal serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and standing up for what is right.

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