While many analysts are predicting another difficult season for the San Francisco 49ers in 2025, Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer believes doom and gloom predictions are overblown. Appearing on The Rich Eisen Show, Breer was asked which scenario is more likely: the Detroit Lions remaining competitive despite major coaching staff changes, or the 49ers rebounding from a disappointing 2024 campaign.
San Francisco finished last season with just six wins, plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. The 49ers overhauled their roster this offseason, parting ways with several key veterans and bringing in a mix of draft picks and under-the-radar free agents.
Breer made it clear—he's betting on the 49ers to bounce back.
"I think the reason why is because we've all looked at this as a pretty major reset," Breer explained. "The last time I checked, you look at their roster—now, we'll see with [WR Brandon] Aiyuk, and when he's back—but they have a first-round pick in [WR] Ricky Pearsall, and [head coach] Kyle Shanahan has been really good at identifying those sorts of guys."
Despite the offseason shakeup, Breer pointed out that the 49ers still have top-tier talent across the roster. If they can stay healthier in 2025, the team should look much more competitive.
"[QB] Brock Purdy, [TE] George Kittle, [LT] Trent Williams, [RB] Christian McCaffrey—again, that's injury permitting—[DE] Nick Bosa with three defensive linemen drafted in the top 75 picks coming aboard, [LB] Fred Warner," Breer said. "There's still a lot of talent on that roster."
He also emphasized the significance of Robert Saleh returning as defensive coordinator, which could provide a major boost to a defense that underperformed in 2024. That change shouldn't be overlooked.
"It's still a really good, well-run organization," Breer added.
As for the Lions, Breer noted that they lost several key members of their coaching staff, face a tough division, and have a challenging 2025 schedule.
"I'd take the Niners, but it's a close call," he concluded.
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