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Niners Nation fantasy football takes on Will Pauling
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from Niners Nation about Will Pauling.
8
Insights
3
Positive
0
Negative
Insight ledger
All Niners Nation insights about Will Pauling
NegativeRoleAug 20, 2026
Undrafted rookie Pauling is competing for return spots alongside Jordan Watkins and Jacob Cowing. If either Watkins or Cowing can make a splash play on special teams, it will be difficult to keep either off the roster, suggesting Pauling faces an uphill battle to secure a roster spot.NegativeRoleAug 20, 2026
Will Pauling is competing for one of two remaining wide receiver roster spots against Jordan Watkins and Jacob Cowing after Demarcus Robinson and Deebo Samuel; Pauling has received good reviews but could be slotted for a practice squad spot unless he shows out in tonight's preseason game, with the winner required to contribute on special teams.NegativeRoleAug 14, 2026
Competing for a roster or practice-squad spot with the 49ers; will get extended preseason action to showcase his abilities in the Tennessee game.PositiveSleeperAug 11, 2026
Undrafted rookie WR Will Pauling is impressing in 49ers camp with his willingness and effectiveness as a blocker, sustaining blocks against defensive ends, linebackers, and defensive backs; he appears to be a strong candidate to stick on the practice squad and potentially make the regular-season roster, with 155 receptions for 1,753 yards and 15 touchdowns in his 48-game college career.PositiveRoleAug 10, 2026
Rookie WR praised by 49ers WR Coach Leonard Hankerson for work ethic and preparation during OTAs; rather than leaving when organized team activities ended, Pauling stayed to study the playbook and put in additional weight room work, with Hankerson noting the commitment is already showing up on the field: 'They're seeing the fruits of their labor.'PositiveRoleAug 4, 2026
Pauling is competing in the receiver battle and has a really good skill set according to 49ers coordinator Brant Boyer, though Boyer emphasized that success requires more than just returning ability—decision-making, catching, blocking gunners, and fair-catch execution are equally critical.NegativeDepth ChartJul 26, 2026
Pauling is projected for the practice squad as a wide receiver, with his contract through 2028.NegativeDepth ChartJul 24, 2026
Pauling is one of seven undrafted free agents under contract with the 49ers, but the source does not provide specific analysis of his roster chances or role.