San Francisco 49ers: 5 Potential Breakout Players in 2016
By Peter Panacy
Linebacker Aaron Lynch
Outside linebacker Aaron Lynch is the team’s best pass-rusher. And he registered just 6.5 sacks in 2015, which was tied with fellow LB Ahmad Brooks.
All this came on a shortened season due to injury. Lynch appeared in just 14 games and didn’t get much help from a Niners pass rush that amassed only 28 sacks on the season — 29th in the NFL last year.
Still, Lynch graded out with a plus-11.0 pass-rush grade, according to Pro Football Focus.
What Lynch needs in 2016 is help. In 2012, former 49ers pass-rusher Aldon Smith had defensive end Justin Smith to occupy blockers and free up lanes for the younger Smith to rush. It worked better than anyone could have imagined.
Lacking a player like Justin Smith, opposing offenses can simply look to focus their pass-blocking attention on Lynch. He was the lone threat in all reality.
Why He’ll Break Out
The 49ers will be looking to add some muscle to the defensive line and linebacker crop this offseason. Free agency and/or the draft could provide the necessary means to take some of the pressure off Lynch and allow him ample space to work his pass-rushing craft.
On top of that, one should expect second-year pro defensive end Arik Armstead to emerge as a pocket-wrecking force as what was partially seen a year ago.
Speaking of Armstead…
Next: DE Arik Armstead