5 bold predictions for San Francisco 49ers in 2021

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 05: Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers argues a pass interference call during the second quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium on November 05, 2020 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – OCTOBER 25: Deebo Samuel #19 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball during a game angst the New England Patriots on October 25, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

2. Deebo Samuel will lead the 49ers in catches

George Kittle may be a tight end but he’s still San Francisco’s best pass-catcher. Brandon Aiyuk led the receiver room in catches last season. That’s why it’s a bold prediction to believe that Samuel can catch more balls than either player in 2021.

It’s important to note this prediction is about catches. It does not say Samuel will lead the team in yards or touchdowns. The bet here is that he’s going to become San Francisco’s go-to receiver on short and intermediate throws designed to keep their offense on schedule.

Of course, Samuel’s ability to produce yards after the catch gives him a chance to turn short throws into moderate to big gains. He posted a decent average of 11.8 yards per catch last year despite not running a ton of deep routes.

His physicality with the ball in his hands makes him a perfect weapon for Shanahan to utilize in a variety of ways. If he can stay healthy, he’s got a chance to catch 80+ balls this year. That will allow him to narrowly edge out Kittle and Aiyuk in a hotly-contested battle.