One of the losses was pass rusher Nick Bosa, who was coming off an NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign. With the young defender in the lineup, the 49ers' defensive line proved problematic for opposing offenses. However, after Bosa suffered a torn ACL during Week 2, along with the absence of veteran pass rusher Dee Ford, the unit proved to be less formidable.
Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo missed 10 games last season, and the 49ers couldn't replace his production with backups Nick Mullens and C.J. Beathard, neither of whom remains on the roster. In addition, there was one other key offensive star whose absence was greatly felt — All-Pro tight end George Kittle. And it wasn't just because of his ability to make things happen while catching passes from his quarterbacks.
"George Kittle was the Niners' best offensive player for two-plus seasons before multiple injuries claimed half of his 2020 campaign," wrote Adam Maya in a feature for NFL.com previewing NFC West training camps. "He's also, of course, the most complete tight end in the NFL. His return is as important to the offense as Bosa's is to the defense. Look no further than San Francisco falling to the middle of the pack in rushing offense last year for what should improve most with a healthy Kittle."
"Middle of the pack" is an accurate description. San Francisco ranked No. 15 in rushing offense in 2020, with Kittle available for only half the season. The team ranked No. 2 in that category in 2019. Of course, you can't put all of that on Kittle's shoulders. As was the case throughout much of the roster, the 49ers running backs group was decimated by injuries, prompting the team's decision-makers to add some insurance by signing Wayne Gallman and drafting Trey Sermon and Elijah Mitchell.
Maya adds that the expectations are high for the 49ers in 2021. He believes that a failure to meet those expectations could reflect poorly on the coaching staff and bring its value into question.
"(Head coach Kyle) Shanahan has now had four years to fashion the roster to his liking," wrote Maya, "including mortgaging the future for Lance only three years after making Jimmy G the highest-paid player in football. Missing the playoffs a fourth time in five years could put Shanahan on the hot seat in 2022."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Healthy Brock Purdy ignites the 49ers offense ahead of Seahawks showdown
Brock Purdy's return from a turf toe injury has reignited the San Francisco 49ers offense, which has been one of the NFL's hottest units in recent weeks. Over the past three games, the 49ers have racked up 1,366 total yards. During that span, Purdy has completed 74.2% of his... -
49ers injury update: George Kittle 'absolutely' expects to play vs. Seahawks in Week 18
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle plans to suit up for Saturday night's pivotal Week 18 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, despite dealing with a low-ankle sprain. While head coach Kyle Shanahan cautioned against reading too much into Kittle's practice... -
49ers vs. Seahawks final injury report: Trent Williams, George Kittle, 3 others questionable to play
The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for their Week 18 contest against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Both teams have released their official injury reports, which are provided below. San Francisco 49ers Questionable TE George... -
49ers vs. Bears injury update: George Kittle remains a game-day decision
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle did not practice this week as the team prepares for its Week 17 matchup against the Chicago Bears, leaving his status up in the air heading into Sunday. Despite the lack of on-field work, the 49ers remain optimistic that the All-Pro...