With NFL training camps set to begin, Bleacher Report has released its latest power rankings, placing the San Francisco 49ers at No. 9 entering the 2026 season.
The Los Angeles Rams, widely viewed as the Super Bowl favorites, claimed the top spot in Bleacher Report's rankings, followed by the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos.
For the 49ers, staying healthy could be the biggest factor in determining whether they can contend for another playoff run. Last season, San Francisco overcame a rash of injuries to finish 12-5 and earn a postseason berth.
The defense was hit especially hard, losing two of its biggest stars. Pass rusher Nick Bosa suffered a torn ACL, while linebacker Fred Warner sustained a dislocated and fractured right ankle, leaving the unit without two of its most impactful playmakers.
"The return of a healthy Nick Bosa and Fred Warner for the season opener in Australia isn't guaranteed but would be welcomed," Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport wrote. "Veteran tight end George Kittle being ready is less likely."
It's worth noting that Warner is expected to be fully cleared for training camp and the regular season, while Bosa is also on track to be available for Week 1.
Kittle's status remains less certain, although the veteran tight end has made encouraging progress in his recovery from the Achilles injury he sustained during the playoffs. Kittle has repeatedly said his goal is to be ready for the regular-season opener.
Davenport also pointed to San Francisco's biggest offseason addition, veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, as another player with health-related questions.
"San Francisco's biggest offseason acquisition (wide receiver Mike Evans) is himself an aging star coming off an injury-plagued season," Davenport continued.
The 49ers will also have to navigate what could be the NFL's toughest division. The Rams and Seahawks are both viewed as legitimate Super Bowl contenders, making the NFC West one of the league's most compelling.
"You can't ever count the 49ers out—they demonstrated that in 2025. If things fall into place, the Niners can hang with the Rams and Seahawks," Davenport wrote.
Davenport notes injury concerns, an aging roster, and the heavy workload placed on running back Christian McCaffrey—who led the NFL with 413 touches last season—as reasons for caution entering 2026.
He concluded, "San Francisco's window is still there in theory. But games aren't played in theory."
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