The San Francisco 49ers are hopeful that a healthier roster will help them bounce back from last season's 6-11 finish. While some key players are expected to remain sidelined to start the 2025 season, several others are on track to return in time for training camp next month.
49ers not expected for training camp
Don't expect to see wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk or safety Malik Mustapha on the field when training camp kicks off. Both are projected to start the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, which would keep them out for at least the first four games.
Mustapha, who tore his ACL in last season's finale, is reportedly making strong progress in his recovery. Video footage recently shared on social media shows the second-year safety moving well, offering optimism that he can contribute later in the season.
Aiyuk's rehab may take longer, as he is recovering from both ACL and MCL tears sustained in October. Still, there remains hope the veteran receiver can return in time to make an impact during the 2025 campaign.
Additionally, linebacker Curtis Robinson (ACL) and rookie quarterback Kurtis Rourke (ACL) are not expected to be ready for the start of training camp.
49ers expected to return for training camp
Despite a long list of injuries at the team's mandatory minicamp in June, head coach Kyle Shanahan provided an encouraging update. He stated that all of the following players—who were sidelined during minicamp—are expected to be cleared for training camp:
- S J'Ayir Brown (ankle cleanup surgery)
- DT Alfred Collins (calf)
- OL Andre Dillard (ankle scope)
- WR Jauan Jennings (calf)
- DE Yetur Gross-Matos (knee)
- S George Odum (knee)
- WR Ricky Pearsall (hamstring)
- DE Mykel Williams (hamstring)
Linebacker Nick Martin, a third-round pick out of Oklahoma State, recently suffered a fractured thumb during weight training. Fortunately, the injury did not require surgery, and Martin participated in minicamp. He's expected to be fully available for training camp.
Looking ahead to 2025
After an injury-riddled 2024 campaign that led to a last-place finish in the NFC West, the 49ers are hoping for better health and more consistency in 2025. Their chances of a successful rebound may depend heavily on the return of key players and the ability to stay healthy throughout the season.