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Aiyuk feeling ‘better’ ahead of increased 49ers workload vs. Rams originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
SANTA CLARA — Brandon Aiyuk’s stat line was not impressive against the Minnesota Vikings, but the 49ers wide receiver said he could see noticeable improvements from the 2024 NFL season opener.
“I was happy watching tape this week,” Aiyuk said Wednesday. “I liked just coming back alive in the running game and just my feet a little better. Just having more fun.”
Aiyuk did not take part in 49ers training camp while his contract situation was unresolved. He did not hit the practice field with his teammates until after he agreed on a five-year, $134.1 million contract with the 49ers on Aug. 29.
In the first two games of the regular season, Aiyuk has just six receptions for 71 yards. Last year, he averaged 84 yards receiving per game en route to his 75-catch, 1,342-yard season.
Aiyuk said he believes he is rounding back into regular-season form but acknowledged there are no shortcuts to get there.
He said the progress he has made is just regaining his feel for the game.
“I feel better. Another week. Another step,” Aiyuk said.
“I’m just looking to take another step. We got another day of practice today, so I’m looking to get better again today. Tomorrow and Friday, and let it go on Sunday and see what happens.”
The 49ers will need more production from Aiyuk with two of their top four offensive players out of action.
Running back Christian McCaffrey, the 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, was placed on injured reserve due to Achilles tendinitis and a calf strain. And wide receiver Deebo Samuel is expected to miss a couple of games with a calf strain.
Aiyuk acknowledged that he and tight end George Kittle must shoulder a larger part of the load as the Los Angeles Rams are likely to key on them.
Coach Kyle Shanahan said Aiyuk did what was asked of him against the Vikings, but there were breakdowns elsewhere that prevented him from piling up better…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/aiyuk-feeling-better-ahead-increased-222006989.html
Author : NBC Sports BayArea
Publish date : 2024-09-18 22:20:06
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