CBS Sports writer Cody Benjamin released two rankings highlighting the top 10 NFL players at each position heading into the 2025 season—one for offense and another for defense. The lists featured five San Francisco 49ers stars.
49ers players recognized
- George Kittle – No. 1 among tight ends
- Christian McCaffrey – No. 3 among running backs
- Trent Williams – No. 4 among offensive linemen
Defense:
- Fred Warner – No. 1 among linebackers
- Nick Bosa – No. 6 among edge rushers
Benjamin compiled his rankings with input from multiple CBS Sports writers, including Jordan Dajani, Jared Dubin, Garrett Podell, and Tyler Sullivan.
It's certainly an honor to be considered among the best at your position, and the 49ers having five players make their respective lists shows that the team still boasts elite-level talent, even after a significant offseason roster overhaul and several depth concerns.
Here is what Benjamin wrote about each 49ers player:
George Kittle (No. 1 among tight ends)
"Bumps and bruises never stop this man from pacing tight ends in colorful personality and production. At 31, he's still in All-Pro form."
Christian McCaffrey (No. 3 among running backs)
"Opinions are split because 'CMC' has often been one of two things: seriously banged up or unstoppably effective as a utility man."
Trent Williams (No. 4 among offensive linemen)
"It's unclear how much longer he'll man the blind side at 37, but his nasty pass protection is a true asset to Kyle Shanahan's offense."
Fred Warner (No. 1 among linebackers)
"There's no competition here: Warner has barely taken a play off as the high-octane heart of San Francisco's contending defense."
Nick Bosa (No. 6 among edge rushers)
"It's not necessarily a coincidence San Francisco has reached two Super Bowls since his burly presence arrived in 2019."