The losses of linebacker Fred Warner and defensive end Nick Bosa proved especially costly, contributing to inconsistent defensive performances throughout the season.
Warner has fully recovered from the dislocated and fractured right ankle he suffered in Week 6, while Bosa continues his rehabilitation from a torn ACL.
Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport recently outlined the best- and worst-case scenarios for every NFL defense entering the 2026 season. For the 49ers, the best-case scenario is straightforward: stay healthy and keep their defensive stars on the field.
The worst-case scenario, however, centers on lingering questions surrounding both the team's health and its secondary.
"Getting both of those players (Warner and Bosa) back at 100 percent to open the season isn't guaranteed, especially with Bosa, who tore his ACL for the second time last year (since entering the NFL)," Davenport wrote.
If Warner and Bosa can return to form and deliver impactful 2026 campaigns, it would provide a significant boost to defensive coordinator Raheem Morris' unit.
Even with those stars back, concerns remain in the secondary. The 49ers ranked 25th in passing yards allowed and 21st in passing touchdowns allowed during the 2025 season, leaving plenty of room for improvement.
"There are also questions at the back end of the defense—cornerback Deommodore Lenoir is a capable veteran starter, but Upton Stout and Renardo Green are far less proven commodities," Davenport wrote. "In the NFC West, a shaky pass-rush and/or secondary is a recipe for disaster—and the Niners could have both in 2026."
If the 49ers hope to contend for another deep playoff run, they'll need a healthy Warner and Bosa while their young defensive backs take a significant step forward.
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