NFL
Season Outlook:
Despite an injury list that might’ve needed a depth chart, the 49ers managed 12 wins and a playoff victory before succumbing to the eventual champs in the divisional round. This decade has followed a familiar pattern: an elite head coach, a team of exceptional talent, and an almost annual run deep into January. But they’ve yet to close the deal. San Francisco returns with Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey and a bolstered roster ready to go for it again. The window is closing, but it’s not shut. The competition, however, is tougher than ever.
What's Changed:
Mike Evans and Christian Kirk are the two newest options for Brock Purdy. Evans spent 12 years in Tampa Bay and will lend additional leadership and experience to a team with plenty of it. Kirk is entering his ninth season having been banged up each of the past two. Purdy, meanwhile, got a lot richer. The Niners signed him to a five-year, $265 million extension with $181 million guaranteed. San Francisco added depth – and youth – with eight picks in the 2026 draft, including three additional fourth-rounders.
Bigger Role & Sophomore Breakout:
Evans immediately becomes a focal point in the passing game, pairing with George Kittle and McCaffrey to give Shanahan’s offense a clear matchup advantage. Second-year edge rusher Mykel Williams is a name to watch. His rookie season in Week 9 with tears in his ACL and meniscus of the right knee. How he recovers will indicate if can become the every-down force this front seven has been missing.
Key Question:
Will all the stars stay on the field? Shanahan's team managed to get 12 wins and a divisional playoff appearance despite a staggering number of injuries. But as we saw in 2024, when the Niners were similarly banged up, missing McCaffrey for 13 games and losing 11 times, it can go very badly too. The depth of this roster might be able to overcome it. They’d rather not try that this year.
Prediction:
The Niners go 11-6 and get a Wild Card in a very competitive NFC West. They can’t catch the Rams but stay in stride with the Seahawks. Purdy puts up the best statistical season of his career with a terrific supporting cast and Evans hauls in at least 10 touchdown catches. San Francisco wins another playoff game but goes no further.
X-Factor:
The difference between 2024’s injury-plagued season and last year’s was McCaffrey – who suited up for every game in 2025. His presence as a runner and receiver completely changes the dynamic of the offense. Can he produce another 2,000-yard performance as he enters his 30s or will the wear and tear get to him?
Final Scorecard:
- Offense: 9
- Defense: 8
- Coaching: 9
- X-Factor Upside: 8
- Schedule Strength: 7