I think we can narrow it down to two names
Talanoa Hufanga’s 2022 season was a testament to his potential as a breakout player. Just like Brandon Aiyuk, who emerged as one of the best receivers in the NFL last season, there’s a chance for another player to shine for the San Francisco 49ers this season. Could it be Yetur Gross-Matos, who’s ready to step into the role of Charles Omenihu and make a significant impact?
As we consider the options, one name that stands out is Yetur Gross-Matos. He’s set to assume the role of Charles Omenihu, and if we anticipate the Niners playing with the lead, Gross-Matos could have a significant impact. This is a strategic move that could make the front office look smart for their investment in him during the past free agency.
There are too many mouths to feed for me to pick Gross-Matos. He could have an incredible year in context and still fall short of putting up “eye-popping” numbers playing alongside Nick Bosa, Javon Hargrave, and Leonard Floyd.
This year, I’m turning my attention to the secondary for a potential breakout player. One player who caught my eye last season was Ji’Ayir Brown. Despite some questionable usage by Steve Wilks, Brown’s strengths as a player were evident. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions could be a game-changer for the 49ers.
Brown’s best and most productive games last season came when he primarily played in the post as the deep safety. That’s where he played when he initially took over as the starter. Yet, for whatever reason, Wilks went away from that after Brown’s first couple of games. It was bizarre, to say the least.
Part of this projection is under the assumption that new defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen doesn’t try to fit a square peg into a round hole. Use the second-year safety out of Penn State to guard tight ends in man coverage on occasion, but let him use his instincts in coverage, read the quarterback, and make plays.
Brown wasn’t targeted often last season. He allowed five receptions on ten targets. The touchdown he surrendered against the Arizona Cardinals was due to poor eye discipline that can easily be corrected. It’s as simple as not looking back at the quarterback when the receiver goes to cut in a specific direction.
The plays that stand out were in the NFC Championship when Brown knew Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff was targeting an in-breaking route, and he jumped it. The pass was completed, but it was an interception nine out of ten times.
I think an entire offseason and understanding what he’ll be asked to do will go a long way in Brown’s development. I had a chance to sit down with him at the Super Bowl and watch film with him for about 15 minutes. His knowledge and preparation scream star player. It’ll help if the Niners are playing with a lead; that way, he can get a couple of “cheap” interceptions, like the one against Drew Lock and the Seattle Seahawks late in the season in the fourth quarter.
Intercepting Patrick Mahomes on the biggest stage should only skyrocket Brown’s confidence. But that’s the type of ballhawk he’s always been. In 2021, Brown tied for the most interceptions in college football. He played free safety, so leaving him there will reward the 49ers with stellar safety play. I’m expecting a breakout season for Brown in his first full season as a starter
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