Shanahan says 49ers will fill WR gap from within after Robinson injury

San Francisco plans to lean on its current receivers first, with front office still exploring outside options.

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said the team plans to rely on receivers already on the roster after Demarcus Robinson went down with an injury in Week 2. Robinson is the third of the 49ers' top four projected wide receivers to be hurt this season. He is expected to miss three to six weeks.

Shanahan indicated the front office, led by general manager John Lynch, is reviewing outside possibilities, and any veteran addition would likely go to the practice squad. However, he said the immediate plan is for current players to take on larger roles. Jacob Cowing played 24 offensive snaps in Week 2 after Robinson's exit, while Jordan Watkins has been a healthy scratch through the first two games.

Veteran KhaDarel Hodge, who recorded his first catch of the season Sunday, is also expected to take on more work. Shanahan noted Hodge made key blocks against the Rams and said the team will spread the load rather than rely on one replacement.

The 49ers may also lean more on Mike Evans and tight end George Kittle, who caught four passes for 80 yards and a touchdown after Robinson left Sunday's game. Evans has been targeted 10 times through two weeks.

Reinforcements could come later, as Christian Kirk is eligible to return from injured reserve in Week 5 and De'Zhaun Stribling is on track to return late in the season.