Peyton Manning didn’t hold back his criticism of 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk after a crucial dropped pass during San Francisco’s 32-19 win over the New York Jets on Monday Night Football.
Aiyuk missed a chance to extend the 49ers’ 13-7 lead when he let a perfectly placed pass from quarterback Brock Purdy slip through his hands in the end zone.
Though the missed opportunity didn’t impact the final outcome, as the 49ers cruised to a comfortable victory, Manning was visibly frustrated during ESPN’s “ManningCast” alternative broadcast.
The Hall of Fame quarterback used the moment to highlight what he saw as the importance of training camp, referencing Aiyuk’s recent contract saga with the team.
“Get signed. Get in training camp. There’s a reason for training camp. You need it. We need the reps,” Manning vented. “Get those contracts done earlier so he can get in training camp [so] we don’t drop balls on opening night.”
Aiyuk and the 49ers had recently agreed to a four-year, $120 million deal, ending a lengthy offseason standoff.
Despite his brother Eli taking a more measured approach, calling Aiyuk “just a little rusty,” Peyton doubled down on his point.
“You’re still catching balls at a high school field from some quarterback that’s 45 years old, my age. You’re not catching balls from your quarterback,” Peyton said, emphasizing the importance of being in sync with the team. “Get signed, get in camp, and we don’t drop the ball.”
San Francisco ended up settling for a field goal to take a 16-7 lead into halftime.
While Aiyuk’s drop was a talking point, the 49ers ended up dominating the Jets and cruised to a commanding victory.
Aiyuk finished with two receptions for 28 yards, while Jauan Jennings led the team in receiving with 64 yards. Both of San Francisco’s touchdowns came on the ground, sealing a solid start to the season.
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