Once viewed as perennial championship contenders, the 49ers are now seen by many as a team in transition, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The retooled defense may take time to find its rhythm under returning coordinator Robert Saleh.
With a seemingly soft schedule ahead, ESPN's Adam Schefter was asked on NFL Live whether things are trending upward for head coach Kyle Shanahan's squad (h/t Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated).
"I don't know about that," Schefter responded. "I would say that the schedule shapes up the right way for this team to try to get back on track coming off a 6-11 season."
Schefter pointed to several key offseason losses that could hinder the team's progress, among them linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safety Talanoa Hufanga. Hufanga's expected replacement, rookie Malik Mustapha, suffered a torn ACL in the regular-season finale and is likely to miss time in 2025.
The defensive line also experienced significant turnover, with veterans Javon Hargrave, Maliek Collins, and Leonard Floyd departing and being replaced by three draft picks.
"This team lost a lot more talent than people realize," Schefter added. "And yes, the schedule is favorable and easier, but there are many losses that this team has to overcome this season."
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