SANTA CLARA — The 49ers closed out their three preseason games with several players fighting for roster spots, and their PFF grades could indicate who is a step ahead or behind. 

While player’s PFF grades are not a metric that front offices use to evaluate roster decisions, the statistics often can give insight on progress young players are making for those of us outside the building.

Here are a few highlights from the team’s PFF grades from Saturday’s preseason win over the Los Angeles Chargers:

WR Terique Owens — 90.5

Owens, who was released last season after breaking a bone in his hand, had a positive preseason finale, on the field for 10 plays, catching his only target for 22 yards and a touchdown.

WR Isaiah Hodgins — 79.0

The receiver only was on the field for eight offensive plays, 14 on special teams, but caught his single target for 10 yards.

RB Jeff Wilson Jr. — 55.8

Wilson led the team in rushing and looks as fast as he was when he initially was with the team. The running back was on the field for 30 offensive plays, carrying the ball 11 times for 41 yards and a touchdown, but allowed a pressure — a hurry, and was targeted one time without holding on to the ball. The veteran could be a candidate for the practice squad.

TE Jake Tonges — 35.9

The tight end technically was not charged with a quarterback pressure, but received a 0.0 grade for pass blocking. Tonges likely is a candidate for the practice squad, with George Kittle and Luke Farrell being the only tight ends on the initial 53.

DL Trevis Gipson — 90.5

The defensive lineman led the team with four total pressures — one hit and three hurries. While Gipson will have a tough time earning one of the initial defensive line spots, he has a chance after this performance.

LB Nick Martin — 87.2

The rookie already has improved leaps and bounds since his preseason debut just a few weeks ago. Martin registered five solo tackles, two assists and no misses. Martin also was good in coverage, allowing four receptions on six targets but only for 28 total yards.

DL Sebastian Valdez — 57.9

The rookie lineman that has caught the attention of many is fighting for one of the final roster spots. Valdez was on the field for 30 defensive snaps and registered one hit, one hurry, and one tackle. The Washington product did miss a tackle and allowed a catch for 12 yards in coverage.

S Marques Sigle — 48.2

The rookie had ups and downs in the preseason finale. He was on the field for 36 defensive plays, allowing catches on all three of his targets for 42 yards and a touchdown. On the upside, Sigle made three tackles, none missed.

The team will hold a bonus practice on Monday before the roster deadline on Tuesday. 

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