San Francisco 49ers: Predicting Stats For Key Offensive Players
By Erik Lambert
Jan 5, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) makes a touchdown catch against Green Bay Packers strong safety Morgan Burnett (42) and inside linebacker A.J. Hawk (50)during the second haf of the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
The 2014 season is a very important one for the San Francisco 49ers. Based on their roster outlook, what are some offensive stat projections?
Colin Kaepernick – 4,295 yards, 35 touchdowns, 16 interceptions
The man just got paid so he knows the pressure is on to perform. Colin Kaepernick should do just that though. He’s firmly entrenched in the system now and has the best arsenal of receivers he’s had yet as a pro.
Frank Gore – 1,054 yards, seven touchdowns
The ever increasing depth and talent of the San Francisco 49ers backfield is putting more pressure on Frank Gore to hold his starting job at age 31. He will still manage to crack 1,000 yards but all his numbers will be down from 2013.
Carlos Hyde – 680 yards, five touchdowns
Part of the reason is the presence of rookie Carlos Hyde. Here’s one writer saying he will beat out Kendall Hunter for the backup job and follow that by turning in a solid first year in yards and touchdowns. Don’t be surprised if he has to start a couple games.
Anquan Boldin – 870 yards, six touchdowns
Most of last season it was pretty much the Anquan Boldin show at wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers. This time he won’t be expected to carry the load, which is why his numbers will sink. That and the fact he turns 34 in October.
Michael Crabtree – 1,100 yards, four touchdowns
There is little doubt that Michael Crabtree is the favorite target of Kaepernick. His ability to get open and excellent hands are a quarterback’s best friend. Thanks to some help added in the draft and free agency, Crabtree will respond with his best season.
Stevie Johnson – 990 yards, five touchdowns
The real excitement for 2014 centers around recent trade acquisition Stevie Johnson. After a rough end to his time in Buffalo, the young man is eager for a fresh start. If he responds to the coaching of Jim Harbaugh, he could become an important addition to that passing attack.
Bruce Ellington – 435 yards, three touchdowns
One of the more intriguing San Francisco 49ers draft picks back in May was South Carolina receiver Bruce Ellington. In person he may not look like much, but the kid is a two-sport athlete with the kind of explosion and quickness to create big play. Greg Roman is bound to find a package of plays for him and it should yield results.
Vernon Davis – 900 yards, 12 touchdowns
Despite his OTA holdout there is no reason to think Vernon Davis won’t continue to be one of the best tight ends in football this season. So much in fact that he will take advantage of his newfound freedom by posting a career best 900 yards.