The 49ers could be on the verge of making a big mistake with former Vols WR Jauan Jennings

Jennings will eventually sign his restricted free agent tender. And he'll suit up for the 49ers this fall (unless there's a trade). For now, skipping voluntary OTAs is the only leverage that Jennings has as he looks for the contract extension that he absolutely deserves. 

If the 49ers think they can easily replace Jennings with Pearsall, they're sorely mistaken. Jennings isn't the type of player that's ever going to put up big numbers -- that's just not who he is as a wide receiver. What he brings to the field isn't quantifiable. Jennings' toughness, leadership, physicality, relentless effort, and his desire to win are what makes him a special player. 

Jennings helps bring an elite physical edge to the 49ers' offense. He's just as happy to block while someone else scores as he is to catch a touchdown pass. Jennings just wants to win. This is a guy who had the game of his life in last season's Super Bowl yet he was clearly dejected after the game because of the result. He doesn't care who gets the credit or lights up the box score, he just wants to win football games.   

If the 49ers don't give Jennings an extension and they let him leave in free agency next offseason, they'll be losing a player that helps set the tone for the entire franchise. And it would be foolish to expect Pearsall, who is a fine player, to bring that same element. 

Pearsall may end up recording better stats in the NFL, but there's no way he can bring the same edge that Jennings brings on every single snap of every single game/practice.