The San Francisco 49ers outperformed their available talent for much of last season. Despite losing several key contributors to injuries for parts—or most—of the year, the team still finished 12–5, secured a playoff berth, and even won a postseason game.

San Francisco was also more active than expected during free agency this offseason, especially compared to last year's quiet approach. Among the 49ers' notable additions were wide receiver Mike Evans and linebacker Dre Greenlaw. The team also traded for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to strengthen the defensive front.


Several key players are also working their way back from injuries. Linebacker Fred Warner is expected to be ready for the 2026 season after suffering a dislocated and fractured right ankle that ended his 2025 campaign early. The 49ers are also hopeful that defensive linemen Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams will return after recovering from ACL injuries.

The timeline is less certain for tight end George Kittle, who suffered an Achilles injury in the 49ers' playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles. However, there is optimism that he could return to full strength sooner than initially anticipated.

49ers land in top 10 of NFL roster rankings


Bleacher Report's Moe Moton recently ranked the 10 best NFL rosters following the early wave of free agency.

The Los Angeles Rams claimed the top spot on the list, while the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks came in at No. 5.

The 49ers didn't rank quite as high as their NFC West rivals but still cracked the list at No. 10, largely due to their abundance of star power.


"When you read through names like Trent Williams, Christian McCaffrey, Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, and George Kittle, who are All-Pro players, it sounds like a list of future Hall of Famers," Moton wrote. "In free agency, San Francisco signed wide receiver Mike Evans, who may also be enshrined in Canton, Ohio, one day."

Health and depth remain key questions


Despite the star power, Moton noted that injuries remain a major concern for the 49ers roster.

"All that said, the 49ers roster feels like it's hanging on by a thread every week because of injuries," Moton wrote. "They have questionable depth, so it's important that their elite players stay healthy. Bosa, Warner, and Kittle are coming off season-ending injuries. Evans missed nine games last year."

Much of the team's outlook will also hinge on quarterback Brock Purdy, who dealt with a turf toe injury last season.

A strong 2026 campaign from Purdy could significantly elevate the perception of San Francisco's roster.


"Quarterback Brock Purdy is the key ascending talent on the roster, but he missed nine games because of injuries in the previous campaign and posted mediocre passing numbers over the last two years," Moton wrote.

"If Purdy shines for another full season and the 49ers develop more of their younger players, this club would be closer to the top five."

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