"Not having a guy like Brandon out there is huge, but we got some really young guys who are battling all the time," Shanahan said during the interview. "We've brought in some older vets who are getting mixed in there, and everyone's trying to earn that spot because you never know how Week 1's going to look."
The latest addition to the wide receiver room is veteran Robbie Chosen. He has played eight NFL seasons and has amassed 379 catches for 5,082 yards and 30 touchdowns in his career.
San Francisco also boasts wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who reported to training camp in peak physical condition and has been impressive. This week, Samuel praised Jauan Jennings, who signed a contract extension this offseason, calling him the 49ers' most consistent receiver.
While Ricky Pearsall is dealing with a shoulder injury, the 49ers hope the first-round draft pick will contribute during his rookie season. Additionally, Ronnie Bell, Jacob Cowing, Trent Taylor, and others are battling for roster spots.
"I know when you deal with business parts, with the contracts and things like that, I hope that does get worked out," Shanahan continued. "But you also, when all that stuff's good, there's plenty of times people just break an ankle in Week 1 or in training camp, and you have big plans for the season, and [now] you got to go the whole season with the part missing.
"Right now, it's almost like we're preparing that way because guys aren't here. So those guys do get those reps, and they are trying to prepare for that moment. But that moment can just as easily come in Week 3 when someone gets an injury. So it's always good for the practice and stuff, and you always got to be ready for 'next man up,' and we're preparing for that every moment."