49ers roster: Predicting Trey Lance’s 5 favorite targets in 2022
By Peter Panacy
Trey Lance’s favorite target No. 2: 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk
Out of all of San Francisco’s receiving weapons returning from 2021, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk arguably stands to benefit the most from Trey Lance being under center.
Aiyuk’s early statistical struggles last year stemmed from a few things, one of them being his role as a deep threat who could stretch the field. However, Jimmy Garoppolo never had the arm strength to take advantage when Aiyuk managed to get open deep, and the chemistry struggled as a result.
Additionally, as Niners Nation’s Kyle Posey pointed out, Aiyuk excels on outside slant routes and digs, frequently performing his craft beyond the numbers, another area of the field Garoppolo rarely targeted.
Read More: Expect Brandon Aiyuk to thrive with Trey Lance under center
This will change with Lance, who isn’t afraid or unable to throw outside the numbers or down the field, which leads to the idea Aiyuk could finally net his first 1,000-yard season at the NFL level.
With opposing teams looking to lock down All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel this season, don’t be surprised if Aiyuk posts 65 catches for 1,100 yards and six touchdowns.