There was one benefit with the 49ers sitting Brandon Aiyuk out against the Giants in Week 3.
It was the emergence of rookie receiver Ronnie Bell. He had himself a solid game in which he scored the first touchdown of the game and his career. Bell was a preseason standout, which gave a light indication that he could be a contributor on the offense. Sometimes it doesn't mean anything since it is the preseason, but it is clear that Bell has some talent that can help the 49ers offense.
Jauan Jennings is doubtful to play in Week 4 when the 49ers face the Cardinals. That means another opportunity will be presented for Bell to make an impression. He can increase his stock in this game and continue to build upon what he did against the Giants. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has already seen great improvement and increased confidence in Bell.
“He started in pre-season, started in practice, carried over to the games," said Shanahan. "He's been great in these first three weeks. Played really well without the ball and when he’s got opportunities, he has done exactly what he's expected to do and gets better in practice every day and been real excited with him so far.”
Looking back, a lot of the opportunities that Bell was presented with didn't happen until Ray-Ray McCloud and Danny Gray suffered injuries. That allowed Bell to get looked at more closely with more reps that he likely otherwise doesn't get. Bell has made the most of those opportunities. I think after his performance against the Giants he's made Gray an afterthought.
But one impressive performance will not be enough. With Jennings most likely out, Bell needs to continue his momentum by looking sweet against the Cardinals. Should he do that, then he will only see the field and be rewarded more.
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