After a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2024 and a massive offseason roster overhaul, the 49ers were far from a lock to make the list.
"Last season's meltdown can't be ignored, and neither can this offseason's major departures on both sides of the line and in the secondary," Edholm wrote. "But if the 49ers bounce back health-wise, their core of talent should help them rebound in the standings."
Injuries plagued San Francisco throughout the 2024 season, contributing to their last-place finish in the NFC West. Despite losing several key contributors this offseason, the team still boasts a strong veteran core, one that could carry them back into contention if they manage to stay healthy.
Three cornerstone players—quarterback Brock Purdy, linebacker Fred Warner, and tight end George Kittle—were all signed to contract extensions. And while Purdy still has his skeptics, Edholm believes the 49ers are in good hands.
"Though some doubters might question whether he's a top-10 quarterback, the 49ers are better off with him than they would have been with any reasonable alternative, operating behind what should be at least a solid offensive line," he noted.
Running back Christian McCaffrey is back to full health after an injury-marred 2024, potentially offering a significant boost to the offense. However, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's status remains uncertain. With Deebo Samuel gone, the 49ers will likely rely on Jauan Jennings and rookie Ricky Pearsall as their Week 1 starting wideouts.
On defense, Edholm highlighted the potential of a strong rookie class, which includes defensive linemen Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins, and CJ West. They'll join veteran star Nick Bosa on a retooled defensive front.
"The problem is, the defensive interior lacks depth, and the secondary remains riddled with questions," Edholm added. "Can Robert Saleh, back in the defensive coordinator chair he occupied from 2017 to 2020, work his magic?
"It wasn't as easy to justify a spot on this list for the 49ers, who also carry major special-teams worries, this season. But they should be helped by a favorable schedule, and it's not like they were suddenly sapped of most of their talent. The bottom line is, if the pendulum swings back and San Francisco receives far less bad luck on the injury front, this team should return to prominence."
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers work out two more defensive players, including former Cardinals draft pick
The San Francisco 49ers are continuing to look for help at edge rusher. In addition to veteran edge rusher Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, who reportedly worked out for the team on Sunday, the 49ers also brought in outside linebackers Andre Carter and Xavier Thomas for workouts, according... -
Bleacher Report names Mac Jones 49ers' most important contract decision heading into 2026 season
The San Francisco 49ers have one of the NFL's more enviable situations at quarterback heading into the 2026 season. Brock Purdy is firmly established as the team's starter, but the 49ers also have a proven backup in Mac Jones who showed last season that he can step in and keep... -
Sports Illustrated lists 49ers wide receiver among rookie wideouts already turning heads
San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling isn't just opening eyes in the Bay Area. After an impressive first week of training camp, people around the league are starting to take notice. Justin Melo of Sports Illustrated recently highlighted five rookie wide... -
49ers' Trent Williams climbs in NFL Top 100 Players of 2026 rankings
A fourth San Francisco 49ers player has earned a spot on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2026 list. Twelve-time Pro Bowl offensive tackle Trent Williams came in at No. 40, climbing five spots from his No. 45 ranking in 2025. No. 40 on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2026…@49ers OT...