San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is not expected to play against the New York Giants on Thursday Night Football at Levi’s Stadium, according to a “league source,” per Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Aiyuk, 25, is listed as questionable with a shoulder injury he suffered during the team’s Week 2 road victory over the Los Angeles Rams. The San Francisco franchise has yet to confirm Aiyuk as OUT.
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“49ers’ WR Brandon Aiyuk, listed as questionable for tonight’s game due to a shoulder injury, is not expected to play vs. the Giants, per league source,” Schefter tweeted.
Expect tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Deebo Samuel to see a lot more targets than in the previous two weeks if Aiyuk does not play, especially the latter.
Niners quarterback Brock Purdy has taken a shine to Aiyuk, targeting him more than all other players to start the 2023 NFL season.
Who benefits from Brandon Aiyuk not playing?
Samuel, 27, will likely have a huge night in terms of fantasy production with Aiyuk out. The Giants defense might also benefit.
Purdy, 23, has yet to lose a regular season game in the NFL and not having his favorite receiver on the field could be a huge advantage for the Giants defense.
Kittle, 29, might also see a lot more targets with Aiyuk out, but is not a sure a bet as Samuel, especially with running back Christian McCaffrey on the field.
McCaffrey, 27, is likely going to be the player who most benefits from Aiyuk not playing in terms of fantasy value because he will become a receiver, as head coach Kyle Shanahan often likes to do.