WR: Brandon Aiyuk - SF

2024 Season Summary

Core Stats

• Games Played: 7 (started all before injury)

• Receptions / Targets: 25 / 47 → 53.4 yards/game

• Receiving Yards: 374 → 15.0 yards/reception

• Touchdowns: 0

Injury Note

• Suffered torn ACL & MCL in Week 7, ending his season

• Takeaway: Aiyuk maintained his YPR (~15.0), showing explosive big-play ability, but was on pace for ~54 receptions, ~810 yards, and 0 TDs, all while remaining a downfield threat.

2025 Fantasy Football Outlook

Health & Availability

• Recovery from ACL + MCL tear in October 2024; initial reports suggest he’ll begin the 2025 season on PUP, missing at least the first 4 games

• 49ers have invested $22.9M roster bonus on April 1, 2025- firm commitment to him returning as the No. 1 WR

• Impact: Expect fewer games of fantasy value early on due to missed time and potential ramp-up period

Opportunity & Role

• With Deebo Samuel traded, Aiyuk slides into the clear WR1 role in Shanahan’s offense

Risks & Strengths

• Risks:

  • Injury recovery timeline

  • Potential limited snap count or snap share ramp-up

• Strengths:

  • Big-play explosiveness and YPR upside

  • Elevated role as WR1 with healthy trajectory

  • Contract and team commitment bolster volume expectations

Headliner Take

Brandon Aiyuk enters the 2025 fantasy football season coming off an abbreviated 2024 campaign that was cut short by a torn ACL and MCL after just 7 games. Before the injury, he averaged 53.4 receiving yards per game on 15.0 yards per catch but failed to find the end zone. With Deebo Samuel no longer on the roster, Aiyuk is positioned as the 49ers’ clear WR1 when healthy. The team’s significant financial commitment to him underscores his importance in the offense. The key for fantasy managers will be monitoring his recovery and availability early in the season, as his role and prior efficiency suggest strong upside once he returns to full strength. I just wouldn't expect that until around mid season.