49ers: Aaron Lynch's Return will Help Defense
San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aaron Lynch was suspended for the first four games of the season for a violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy — he had a diluted sample. Lynch will be able to re-join the 49ers on Monday. He will be a big boost to their defense.
Aaron Lynch has had, by all accounts, a fairly successful NFL career thus far. After a promising collegiate career marred by potential character issues, Lynch has been a productive and non-problematic member of the San Francisco 49ers up until this suspension.
In two seasons Lynch has managed 12.5 sacks and 61 tackles in 30 games. His numbers will likely increase as the 49ers rebuild their offensive line, giving Lynch more opportunities to reach the quarterback in a 3-4 pass rush.
The NFL already enrolled Lynch in their substance abuse program due to his issues in college. Hence, his dilute sample was enough to trigger his four-game suspension. This is not something that should be of much concern. If the NFL gives him another suspension in the next couple years, then the 49ers should start to worry.
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Lynch will be able to boost a pass rush that currently ranks 17th in the NFL with five sacks. Outside linebacker Eli Harold still has yet to record a sack, while Ahmad Brooks leads the team with two. After a rough couple weeks, the 49ers need all the help they can get. Lynch will be a great addition come Monday.
All statistics, records and accolades courtesy of ESPN.com, Pro-Football-Reference.com and Sports-Reference.com unless otherwise indicated.