Deservedly so?
PFF’s Sam Monson released his top-32 wide receiver rankings that are sure to generate discussion and debate. Brandon Aiyuk landed at number eight on the list, with Deebo Samuel rounding out the top ten. Amon-Ra St. Brown, whose recent extension seems to be ground level for a potential Aiyuk extension, landed just ahead of Aiyuk.
The top ten list consists (in order) of Justin Jefferson, Tyreek Hill, Ja’Marr Chase, CeeDee Lamb, AJ Brown, Davante Adams, St. Brown, Aiyuk, Cooper Kupp, and Deebo Samuel.
Here are Monson’s thoughts on Aiyuk:
“A devastating route runner and explosive threat, Brandon Aiyuk is one of the most efficient receivers in the game whose overall numbers are held back only by the offense he plays in and the sheer quantity of other options within it. Passes thrown his way last season generated a 126.8 passer rating.”
Monson cited the 49ers being a run-first team as to why Aiyuk doesn’t get more recognition but understands how much of a technician Aiyuk is in this offense.
Samuel landed at number ten, just ahead of Stefon Diggs and D.J. Moore.
Here are Monson’s thoughts on Samuel:
“One of the most difficult players to place in abstract terms, Deebo Samuel is a unique weapon. Part running back, part receiver, and all-playmaker, he led the league with 32 broken tackles last year, 10 more than any other receiver. His absences from the lineup due to injury also coincided with the 49ers’ biggest wobbles during the season.”
The 49ers lost three straight games during Samuel’s absence along with Trent Williams. Monson cites Samuel’s gravity and game-breaking talent.
While Aiyuk has yet to sign an extension, and Samuel has been subject to many trade rumors and hypotheticals, one thing is clear: the 49ers identified two excellent receivers in the draft and developed them.
Time will tell how the 49ers will proceed with both receivers, but the team is set with two top-ten receivers heading into 2024. Samuel and Aiyuk were the only teammates in the top ten.
Would you slot Aiyuk or Samuel higher or lower on this list?