Aiyuk is still recovering from the ACL and MCL injuries he suffered in October 2024, and it's becoming increasingly unlikely he'll return to the field this season, though the team hasn't ruled it out. San Francisco also voided his guaranteed money for 2026, fueling speculation that a split could be coming.
"Without Deebo Samuel, it feels like the 49ers are missing that go-to yards after catch receiver," Sikkema wrote. "They are using running back Christian McCaffrey a lot for that, but it's not quite the same as scheming things up for a receiver."
In Sikkema's projection, the 49ers address that need by selecting Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion with the No. 26 overall pick.
"Concepcion is averaging more than 7.0 yards after the catch this year and has that kind of acceleration and athleticism," Sikkema noted.
Concepcion delivered 57 catches for 886 yards and nine touchdowns for the Aggies this season, per Sports Reference. His 83.2 Pro Football Focus receiving grade ranks 20th among all college wideouts in 2025, and his 46 first downs rank 11th nationally.
Across his three college seasons—the first two at NC State—Concepcion has totaled 181 catches for 2,185 yards and 25 touchdowns, showcasing the YAC ability the 49ers could greatly benefit from in 2026 and beyond.
Sikkema also sees the interior of the offensive line and edge rusher positions as potential needs heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.
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