WR Deebo Samuel

Typically this top pass catcher role is filled by George Kittle. However, the Vikings are extremely stingy with opposing tight ends, and their secondary is banged up. There’s a prime opportunity for Samuel to have a big playoff debut against the shaky Minnesota defensive backs. He’s become something of a Swiss Army knife for the 49ers, and his versatility to line up in different spots, run the ball, and affect the passing game at all three levels makes him a chess piece that head coach Kyle Shanahan can use to keep the Vikings off balance. A big game for Samuel means a big game for the 49ers offense.