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Tennessee receiver Jauan Jennings had a long weekend — but it was all worth it. Jennings was forced to wait until the early 7th round to hear his name called by the San Francisco 49ers, but that didn’t affect the emotion of the moment.
Watch below.
“I love you! I got you!” DAWG pic.twitter.com/UUHUbMXifa
— Zack Hillis (@Zack_Hillis82) April 25, 2020
Jennings likely tumbled due to a poor showing at the NFL Combine, highlighted by a 4.7 in the 40 yard dash. He also had a history of disciplinary issues in Knoxville — something that the average outsider could easily misinterpret. Once a certain coaching staff left town, Jennings was widely regarded as one of the most important leaders on the team.
Jeremy Pruitt was quick to offer his support for Jennings, calling him “one of the best teammates, leaders and competitors that he’s seen.”
Jauan Jennings is one of the best teammates, leaders, competitors and players that I’ve ever had the privilege of coaching! Proud of him! Let ‘em know Vol nation! #PoweredByTheT https://t.co/saAruaXMie
— Jeremy Pruitt (@CoachJPruitt) April 25, 2020
Pruitt also interrupted Jennings’ opening press conference with the San Francisco media. “Actually, my coach, my head coach from Tennessee, Coach Pruitt,” Jennings said during the video conference. “I’m declining him. I feel bad about it.”
Jennings is coming off of his best season at Tennessee, catching 59 passes for 969 yards and eight touchdowns. He now takes that talent out west to San Francisco, set to join quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Former Vol Jalen Hurd is also a 49er, who will be attempting to play his first season with the team in 2020 after suffering an early injury last year.
Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne, Richie James, Dante Pettis and Travis Benjamin make up the rest of the San Francisco receiver depth chart.