The Smartest Pick 49ers Made in 2020 NFL Draft

Despite a Super Bowl appearance in 2019, the San Francisco 49ers had a few gaps to fill in the roster for this upcoming season. Defensive beast Javon Kinlaw came on board to replace DeForest Buckner while a consistent starter on the offensive line in Colton McKivitz will also make his way to the Bay.

However, San Francisco certainly needed the most help in the wide receiver department. With Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers will get that help and more.

Aiyuk's talent is off the charts, which explains why the Niners traded up to get him. During his freshman year, Aiyuk introduced himself as an explosive offensive talent, hauling in 474 receiving yards with three touchdowns. But he jumped to another level in his senior campaign, catching 65 passes for nearly 1200 yards and eight touchdowns. His biggest game of the season came against Washington State when he recorded 196 yards and three touchdowns.

Aiyuk thrives primarily due to his athleticism, and his unique combination of strength and speed should translate well in the NFL. Additionally, Aiyuk's 81-inch wingspan will give Jimmy Garoppolo a big target in the receiving game.

The rookie can develop into the star receiver currently absent in San Francisco. Deebo Samuel emerged as a welcome addition in his rookie season and will only continue to grow, but beyond the former South Carolina wideout, the door is wide open.

There's room for Aiyuk to thrive amid some healthy competition, creating the perfect opportunity for him to pair with Samuel and form a deadly receiving duo to help the 49ers get back to the Super Bowl.