Why former Vols WR Jauan Jennings didn't play in 49ers' preseason game against the Saints

Former Tennessee Vols wide receiver Jauan Jennings wasn't on the field on Sunday night for the San Francisco 49ers' win against the New Orleans Saints.

Jennings, who signed an extension with the 49ers earlier this offseason, is dealing with an oblique injury according to San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Oblique injuries can be tricky, but it sounds like Jennings isn't dealing with a major issue. Shanahan told reporters that it's something that shouldn't bother the former Vol next week.

It sounds like Jennings probably would've played if Sunday would've been a regular season game (keeping Jennings off the field isn't easy).

But with the 49ers unsure of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's status for the 2024 season (due to his contract dispute), there was no reason to risk a setback with Jennings in a meaningless preseason game (plus rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is still out with an injury, though the 49ers are hopeful he'll be ready for Week One of the regular season).

Jennings, a former seventh round draft selection by San Francisco, has developed into an important player for the 49ers. And it's clear that the team doesn't want to risk losing the Tennessee native before the season even starts.

Related: Former Vols DB Brandon Turnage explains why he transferred to Ole Miss and makes strong statement about his time at Tennessee