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The San Francisco 49er wide receivers have had their share of struggles this season, and the 49ers passing game has suffered in part because of that. The 49ers are looking for some kind of spark, and this has resulted in plenty of fan and media discussion of Jon Baldwin working his way into the starting lineup.
That may not be happening quite so soon. According to the beat writers, Baldwin was spotted working out in a scout team jersey, working as one of the Rams offensive players to help prepare the 49ers defense. Kyle Williams, Marlon Moore and Quinton Patton were all wearing their normal 49ers jersey tops.
This followed some questions the media put to Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman about Baldwin's status this week.
Is WR Jon Baldwin up to speed yet in this offense where he might get a look this week?
Harbaugh: Yeah, that's possible. He's doing a good job. Had a real good week of practice last week. We're all coming back today, back to work, working on fixing.
Jim Harbaugh was really encouraged by WR Jon Baldwin's practices last week and said he might take on a little more of a role. How do you see him fitting in as you go forward for Thursday?
Roman: Jon's done a really nice job in practice. I like his attitude. He hasn't gotten into a game yet and I really haven't noticed anything but a guy coming in everyday working hard and flashing in practice. So, I think Jon's a guy we're very fortunate to have and his role could expand pretty soon."
Baldwin has been inactive each of the first three games this season. He was acquired in the preseason in exchange for A.J. Jenkins. Barring some change in the near future, it is safe to say the 49ers were looking to dump Jenkins' guaranteed money and they figured they'd take a flier on Baldwin. He got some limited opportunities in the preseason, and has not seen the field since.
I suppose this could just be throwing off the media, but at this point it seems unlikely. Kyle Williams is on the injury report with a rib injury, but I believe he was back on the field on Sunday after suffering that injury. We'll see what Thursday brings, but I'm not holding my breath for an active Jon Baldwin.