CBS Sports' Cody Benjamin recently broke down the best- and worst-case scenarios for every NFL team heading into the 2025 season. So, what lies ahead for the San Francisco 49ers as they aim to rebound from a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2024?
Best-case scenario: Health and a Super Bowl run
For the 49ers, the best-case outcome hinges heavily on staying healthy. Last season's struggles were due more to injuries than a lack of talent. If key players can remain on the field, San Francisco could be poised for a significant turnaround.
"Overlooked after their injury-riddled 2024 flop, the 49ers' top leaders -- Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle -- return to health, and Robert Saleh's 'D' powers San Francisco all the way back to the Super Bowl," Benjamin wrote.
Returning to the Super Bowl just two years after appearing in the big game would be a dream outcome. However, several offseason changes leave some uncertainty regarding the roster and the team's depth.
Worst-case scenario: Injuries persist, Purdy regresses
The 49ers parted ways with several key contributors this offseason as they prepared for a new roster-building strategy in preparation for quarterback Brock Purdy's contract extension. This deal made him one of the NFL's highest-paid players.
The worst-case scenario involves continued injury issues and inconsistency from Purdy as he adjusts to the expectations of his new deal.
"Purdy's big-money extension draws fair critique as the quarterback struggles to shake hiccups while trailing," Benjamin noted, "and continued bumps and bruises to McCaffrey and Co. leave Kyle Shanahan straining for answers."
What's the likely outcome?
Will the 49ers return to form and make another Super Bowl push? Or will injuries and growing pains derail their 2025 campaign? We'll start to find out in September.