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One 49ers UDFA Suddenly Making an Impression at Training Camp
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- One 49ers UDFA Suddenly Making an Impression at Training Camp
The San Francisco 49ers are well into training camp, and the team's first preseason matchup is just days away. With the regular season less than a month away, players at the bottom of the roster are quickly running out of time.
This is talented, veteran-heavy roster, so it's especially hard for undrafted free agents to stick out. A few UDFAs were still able to impress this summer, but as we get closer to the season, there's another name that's starting to get attention.
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Will Pauling Impressing at Training Camp
Wide receiver Will Pauling went undrafted in 2026 and was quickly scooped up by the 49ers. After the 2023 season, it seemed like Pauling was well on his way to becoming a top draft pick .
The receiver caught 74 passes for 837 yards and six touchdowns that season but didn't come close to replicating that level of production in 2024 or 2025. But it hasn't necessarily been Pauling's receiving talent that has caught the 49ers' eyes anyway.
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Wide receivers coach Leonard Hankerson recently spoke about the rookie and offered a glowing review.
"He's tough, man," Hankerson said, via NBC Sports Bay Area . "I love Will. That kid comes in, he works. He stayed here the whole offseason. He's the hammer in the running game. Right now, he's been the most physical receiver, I'll tell you that much."
If Pauling is actually the most physical receiver on the team, that could mean he actually has a path to making the team. For UDFAs to stick, they need to be tough and excel in areas like blocking or special teams, and it seems like Pauling is doing that.
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"No matter if he's going up against a D-end, a linebacker, or a DB, he's been sustaining blocks," Hankerson said. "And that shows up a lot."
Can Pauling Secure a Roster Spot?
Even with the injury to Ricky Pearsall , it will be tough for Pauling to make the roster.
Mike Evans , Deebo Samuel , and De'Zhaun Stribling are locked into the top spots, while Christian Kirk , Demarcus Robinson , Jacob Watkins, and Jacob Cowing are battling for the remaining spots. Special teams usually ends up being the difference for these final spots.
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Pauling is clearly helping his cause, though, so it will be interesting to see what he can do in the preseason. Worst-case scenario, it seems like Pauling is ticketed for the practice squad, with the ability to compete and earn a roster spot next season.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 11, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
