After linebacker Aaron Lynch was suspended by the NFL for the first four games of this season, the already low expectations for the San Francisco 49ers have grown even worse.
Lynch was suspended on July 15th, according to the 49ers’ official website, for breaking the NFL’s policy regarding substance misuse.
In the official statement concerning Lynch’s suspension, general manager Trent Baalke of San Francisco said, “We support and respect the league’s decision, even though we are disappointed to hear the news regarding Aaron today.” We have faith that he will take this as a lesson and know what is required of him going ahead.
Lynch discussed the punishment on Sunday. Lynch’s “failed test this offseason was a result of drinking too much water,” according to Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area.
According to Maiocco, Lynch stated, “It came out unreadable.” “Suspension is the next step; I’ve already been in the programme.”
Lynch, a South Florida native, was selected by the 49ers in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Experts said his skill level well above his selection position, although Nolan Nawrocki of NFL.com referred to him as a “classic underachiever” with “questionable effort, motor, and desire.”
After joining the 49ers for two seasons, Lynch has grown into a consistent pass-rusher. With 6.5 sacks last season, he tied for the team lead. He has 12.5 sacks in 30 career games.
Lynch was fifth among 3-4 outside linebackers in pass-rush efficiency last season, behind Von Miller, Justin Houston, Pernell McPhee, and DeMarcus Ware, according to Jeff Deeney of Pro Football Focus.
Lynch’s four-game suspension is a devastating blow to a San Francisco defence that is still striving to assemble a competent roster. The 23-year-old is exceptional and appeared ready to advance farther in his growth.
The 49ers still have Ahmad Brooks, who finished the season with 6.5 sacks, to pressure the quarterback in Lynch’s absence. Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner, their most recent first-round draft selections, are two more crucial players who must perform.
Deeney reported that in 250 pass-rush snaps, Armstead had 38 quarterback pressures, indicating his promising rookie season. Amazing athlete Buckner was selected seventh overall in the April draft.
With Lynch missing for a quarter of the 2016 season, Armstead and Buckner must establish themselves as defensive line leaders if the 49ers are to advance.
