The 2025 NFL Season is here. To get you ready for the action, we’ll be previewing each of the 32 NFL Teams as well as offering predictions for year-end award winners and playoff participants. Check back here each day through September 3 for another installment of the 2025 NFL Preview series.

The 49ers hit a wall in 2024. The team entered the season with plenty of talent, but injuries took an impact. Decimated at running back and elsewhere, the team struggled. The 49ers limped to a 6-10 finish, last in the NFC West. But now back healthy, can they be more of a force in the NFC West? Let’s dive in.

Off-Season Changes

The 49ers managed to lock up Brock Purdy to a long-term deal this off-season, but it came at a cost. The team shipped star receiver Deebo Samuel off to the Washington Commanders. While the 49ers welcomed back Robert Saleh as Defensive Coordinator, they lost a host of defensive standouts. Among those who departed were Leonard Floyd, Javone Hargrave, Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Rock Ya-Sin.

The team also re-loaded. The 49ers added veteran Demarcus Robinson at receiver and brought in Mac Jones to serve as backup quarterback. The team also added safety Ritchie Grant and cornerback Fabian Moreau. They also traded for Skyy Moore, to add to the receiver group. The 49ers also added some reinforcements in the backfield with rookie Jordan James and former Commanders’ back Brian Robinson, Jr., who joined recently via trade. Robinson rushed for 2,329 yards and 15 touchdowns in three seasons in Washington.

Fantasy Impact

Purdy is the man at quarterback. He showed he’s a more than capable passer and has low-end QB1 upside. I have him as a high-end QB2. The big question is Christian McCaffrey. When healthy, he’s a high-end RB1. He missed a lot of time last year, but I think he will be an RB1 again this year. Robinson is the handcuff I want if McCaffrey misses time. Aside from that, he likely won’t get enough volume to be a weekly play.

In the passing game, I like George Kittle. I think he’ll be a high-end TE1 and possibly THE TE1. In the receiver group, there are more questions than answers. I’m betting on Ricky Pearsall being the best of the group, finishing in the WR4 range. I have Jauan Jennings in low-end WR4 range, too. Brandon Aiyuk should have upside when he returns, but that likely isn’t until some time in October. He’s outside the Top 75 for me in 2025.

The Bottom Line

The 49ers are a talented team that could make a big splash in 2025 if they stay that way. They have the highest over/under in the division on most sites, but will they win the West? I think they could do it. Either way, I like them to be in the nine- or 10-win range and be competing for the playoffs.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.