While the 2020 rookie wide receiver class was seen as one of the best in recent memory, Pro Football Focus warns fans and analysts alike to temper expectations when it comes to projecting statistics from the rookie wideouts.
The analytics site ranked rookies position-by-position based on their projected roles and fantasy football production. The San Francisco 49ers' first-round pick, Brandon Aiyuk, came in at No. 6 for rookie receivers.
Ian Hartitz wrote the following about Aiyuk:
"He doesn't possess overwhelming size (6-foot and 205 pounds) or speed (4.5-second 40-yard dash), but his average of 17 yards per catch at Arizona State reflects the reality that it's a problem to get him to the ground. Kyle Shanahan called Aiyuk his favorite wideout in the draft, meaning a rather prominent Day 1 role isn't impossible. At a minimum, Aiyuk possesses the type of after-the-catch ability to fit neatly inside this offense and see a handful of designed opportunities per game. He should be a favorite to start the season in two-WR sets with Deebo Samuel (foot) potentially starting the season on the PUP list."
Hartitz did briefly mention the two other 49ers rookies who play skill positions but failed to make the rankings for their respective position groups.
"Jauan Jennings deserves a longer look than most seventh-round prospects considering Kyle Shanahan's history of enabling low-drafted players."
And then at tight end...
"Charlie Woerner is tentatively slated to work as more of a special-teams contributor."
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