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Brandon Aiyuk 2021 Outlook: Enough Targets To Go Around in San Francisco?
4 years agoIt was a tale of two seasons for Brandon Aiyuk in his rookie campaign with the 49ers. The 2020 first-round pick flashed moments of brilliance throughout the season but was most effective when at least one of Deebo Samuel or George Kittle was off the field. In fact, Aiyuk averaged 9.4 targets per game in eight games played without either Samuel or Kittle. In comparison, he averaged just 5.3 targets per game in the four games both Samuel and Kittle were active. The 49ers want to run the football and could become an even more run-heavy attack if and when Trey Lance takes over as the starter for Jimmy Garoppolo. Lance ran the ball 10.6 times per game in his sophomore season at North Dakota State compared to 49ers starting quarterbacks rushing just 1.6 times per game in 2020. Aiyuk is extremely talented and versatile, but the upside is sure to be capped if both Samuel and Kittle remain healthy throughout the season. He should be targeted as a low-end WR3 with upside.
