The San Francisco 49ers entered the 2024 season as one of the top Super Bowl contenders. Coming off a Super Bowl appearance, many saw them as the team to beat in the NFC. Instead, the 49ers stumbled to a 6-11 record, missing the playoffs and finishing last in the NFC West.
Injuries played a significant role in the disappointing season. Key players like running back Christian McCaffrey, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, and tackle Trent Williams missed substantial time. That's why it's tough to write off the 49ers in 2025 completely. The team believes they can still compete with the league's best—if they stay healthy.
When recently asked if fans should expect the 49ers to return to the playoffs next season, linebacker Fred Warner didn't hesitate.
"Absolutely. Yes," Warner said confidently.
He elaborated, "I think this was just one of those years that we needed, honestly. It kind of humbles you. You learn from it. We had a bunch of injuries to the guys that we obviously needed throughout the season, but now looking forward to just getting back to dominance, getting back to having an opportunity."
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler isn't as optimistic. He recently ranked every NFL team into tiers and no longer considers the 49ers contenders or a team on the cusp of contention. Instead, they fell into his sixth tier: "Stuck in the middle … but a move or two away." Joining the 49ers in this category are the Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, and Indianapolis Colts.
"The 49ers' subpar 2024 shouldn't prompt a full rebuild," Fowler explained. "And, really, is there any choice but to run it back? The roster is saddled with bloated salaries only suitable for a win-now plan. Scaling back in parts is a sound strategy -- and the 49ers are doing so by designating defensive tackle Javon Hargrave a post-June 1 cut and seeking to trade wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr.
"Once those two moves are made, the 49ers can focus on a Brock Purdy extension. Star tight end George Kittle also is a year from free agency. Where San Francisco needs to improve is along the offensive line; it was thin before guard Aaron Banks was set to reach free agency."
Meanwhile, two other NFC West teams—the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks—ranked a tier above the 49ers in Fowler's assessment, landing in the "Headed in the right direction" category.
