Fantasy Football Player Notes

Before excelling in the "wide back" role for the 49ers, Deebo Samuel was already an elite option at wide receiver for fantasy football. Last year in Weeks 1-9, he was the WR2 in fantasy points per game behind only Cooper Kupp. Over that stretch, Samuel was leading all wide receivers in yards per route run (minimum 25 targets, per PFF). He averaged an insane 10.1 targets, 6.1 receptions, and 110.3 receiving yards per game, so "wide back" or no "wide back" matters very little.

After escaping the Kyle Shanahan doghouse, Brandon Aiyuk played at least 90% of snaps in every game after Week 9. Over that stretch, his efficiency was off the charts as he was 13th in yards per route run and the sixth-highest graded wide receiver (minimum 20 targets, per PFF). Aiyuk was the WR21 in fantasy points per game among all wide receivers that started at least three games during that period. Aiyuk's talent is apparent, but he resides on a run-first offense with little touchdown equity (44th in red-zone targets). He's an upside WR4 this season.