In recent years, the San Francisco 49ers have earned a reputation as one of the smarter organizations in the NFL. However, they are not perfect. A.J. Jenkins, a first-round pick of the 49ers back in 2012 who went bust, was dealt to Kansas City last August for fellow draft bust Jonathan Baldwin. Although Jenkins has lasted longer on the Chiefs than Baldwin did on the 49ers, Kansas City has been unable to claim anything more than a slight victory, as A.J. has not made much of an impact so far in his second NFL home. Can Jenkins start turning over a new leaf?
Fantasy Upside
In defense of Jenkins, his late arrival in Kansas City last year left him little time to get comfortable in the scheme and get on the same page with Alex Smith. His comfort level should be higher. Dwayne Bowe is a credible starter, but the rest of the Kansas City receivers are a mixed bag. In theory, that gives Jenkins an opportunity to earn playing time.
Fantasy Downside
If Jenkins has not been able to beat out Donnie Avery, a one-dimensional deep threat, or gain a larger role ahead of players such as Junior Hemingway and Frankie Hammond, what does that say about where he is at as an NFL player?
Bottom Line
We asked Pinocchio, who is a bad motivational speaker, about the fantasy prospects of Jenkins. He said he was a great fantasy player, and then his nose started growing…and growing. We also asked Pinocchio if A.J. should be on fantasy rosters, and he said yes…and then his nose grew even bigger than before.
