San Francisco 49ers Face Key Challenges Entering 2025 NFL Season

The San Francisco 49ers face a pivotal 2025 NFL season following a disappointing 6-11 record in 2024 marred by injuries to key players like Christian McCaffrey and Brock Purdy. NFL analyst Frank Schwab ranked the 49ers 13th entering 2025, citing their deep roster and coaching strength but emphasizing the need for health and acknowledging uncertainties about aging stars. Quarterback Brock Purdy, now the face of the franchise with a $265 million contract extension, carries significant pressure to stabilize the team amid roster changes including the loss of wide receiver Deebo Samuel, while his performance showed signs of regression last year. Despite the struggles, advanced metrics suggest the 49ers were historically unlucky in 2024, with close losses and injuries skewing their record, and expectations for positive regression in close games and improved cohesion with fewer injuries in 2025. However, franchise legend Jerry Rice expressed skepticism about the team's numerous offseason additions, concerned that the influx of young players may hinder team chemistry and delay a return to contention. Overall, the 49ers must overcome questions about roster stability, player health, and on-field execution if they hope to return to playoff form in 2025.