The 2020 NFL Draft was certainly busy for the San Francisco 49ers, if not eventful. With limited resources to begin with, general manager John Lynch selected players to upgrade depth at positions of need while absolutely fleecing Washington in the acquisition of All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams. The 49ers selected Javon Kinlaw 14th overall after trading back a spot with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, the more notable talent, and perhaps the more intriguing prospect is Arizona State wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who the 49ers traded up to select 25th overall.
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Let’s be clear — he’s not quite yet a polished product. Aiyuk’s game does have its restrictions. Primarily a lack of physicality does contribute to pass catching struggles, especially in press coverages. Although deceptively fast, Aiyuk is not considered a burner, which may relegate deep ball chances. Additionally, he needs to refine his route-running skills by using his hands more consistently.
Despite Aiyuk’s question marks, the potential is limitless. He is an elite athlete in the open field amassing plenty of first downs and yards after catch. Aiyuk is considered a dual threat not just as a receiver, but especially in the return game. Although he was minimized to one rushing attempt at Arizona State last season, his play-making ability will be ideal in Kyle Shanahan’s creative offensive scheme, giving Aiyuk ample opportunity to break a game with big plays.
Steve Smith Sr. knows a little bit about WRs. And he’s a big fan of WR Brandon Aiyuk pic.twitter.com/5tCjrAegtU
Aiyuk is listed at 6’1″, but his wingspan more than makes up for anything he’s lacking in size, measuring at a Megatron-esque 81 inches. That combined with his elusiveness and vision after the catch, not to mention his versatility and open field instincts, makes Aiyuk an essential part of the 2020 49ers.
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