RSS 49ers Team Notes

[San Francisco 49ers]

The 49ers ‘have no plans to trade’ Mac Jones this offseason

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 04: Mac Jones attends The New Heights Party with Jason & Travis Kelce at Thriller Country Club on February 04, 2026 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweeted that the San Francisco 49ers have no plans to trade backup quarterback Mac Jones this offseason and fully intend to bring him back to back up Brock Purdy.

Earlier on Sunday morning, we asked if the team was trying to drive up the trade price for Jones. This report could be taken in a few ways. One is to quiet any offseason talk involving Jones going to another team. Others may look at this and say the Niners are telling teams if they are going to make an offer, it better be worth it, or else don’t even bother.

Jones is under contract for the 2026 season with a base salary of $1.4 million. If a team trades for Jones, they are either comfortable with him being a one-year stopgap or would extend him to a multi-year deal.

The Niners don’t have to move Jones, which means they sit in the driver’s seat. The team can draw the line wherever they choose. It would make sense to tell teams the deal starts at a second-round pick, or something along those lines.

We’ll also see how the reports and rumors involving Jones evolve over the next month or so. As teams continue to evaluate the quarterback landscape and their options, giving up a draft pick for Jones might make the most sense.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...ve-no-plans-to-trade-mac-jones-this-offseason

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers’ Keion White undergoes successful surgery after being shot in the ankle

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 14: Keion White #56 of the San Francisco 49ers gets set during the third quarter of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans at Levi's Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to a couple of the primary beat reporters for the San Francisco 49ers, defensive lineman Keion White was shot in the ankle during an event in San Francisco early on Monday morning. The Athletic’s Matt Barrows tweeted that there was an altercation at an event on Mission Street that White was not a part of. Here’s the statement from the team:

“Keion White was a victim of a shooting and sustained a bullet wound to his ankle this morning in San Francisco. He is currently undergoing surgery at a local hospital. We will provide further updates when appropriate.”

Barrows said White already had surgery and is expected to be OK.

Here is a statement from the San Francisco police department:

“A preliminary investigation revealed a verbal altercation occurred between two groups inside a business. The victim was injured when shots were fired by an unknown suspect.”

As more information comes out, we will provide updates. For now, it sounds like White avoided a serious injury, which is the biggest takeaway from this unfortunate news.

Kyle’s update, 8:33 p.m. PT: White underwent successful surgery, per Matt Maiocco:

49ers DL Keion White sustained a gunshot to the ankle early Monday morning, and he is now out of surgery. The 49ers are not putting a timetable on his recovery. https://t.co/PwLOIpeBbU

— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) February 10, 2026

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...ery-after-allegedly-getting-shot-in-the-ankle

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers ranked just outside top 5 in way-too-early power rankings for 2026

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 17: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers scrambles during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers had another solid season, winning 13 games for the fourth time under head coach Kyle Shanahan, and advanced to the divisional round before being bounced by the eventual Super Bowl Champions, the Seattle Seahawks.

It was an impressive year for a 49ers team that was battered by injuries once again, as they managed to go on a run late in the season and steal a playoff game on the road from the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles.

But now, the focus is on the offseason, where they’ll have to improve at several positions in order to make a push back to contention in 2026. The opportunity is there; the 49ers will have money to spend in free agency and still hold a bevy of draft picks to add young talent in the 2026 NFL Draft.

However, every year in the NFL is different, and you never know how things will unfold, as we saw this year with the 49ers and their injuries.

Following the Super Bowl, ESPN posted its way-too-early power rankings for 2026, and the 49ers were ranked all the way at No. 6, notably ahead of teams like the Detroit Lions (No. 7), Philadelphia Eagles (No. 8), Green Bay Packers (No. 10), and Kansas City Chiefs (No. 12), among others.

“The 49ers exceeded expectations by finishing 12-5 and winning a road playoff game after a massive roster overhaul and a series of devastating injuries,” ESPN’s Nick Wagoner wrote.

“Given how 2025 went, it’s time for them to go hunting for more star power. Only quarterback Brock Purdy and cornerback Deommodore Lenoir have established themselves as part of the next foundation, which means it’s on the Niners to find more — whether by draft, trade, or signing — to sustain success. The pass rush and receiver groups, in particular, need significant attention.”

The 49ers did finish the 2025 season with a better/equal record to the Jacksonville Jaguars (ranked No. 9) and Houston Texans (ranked No. 13). The only five teams ahead of them in the power rankings were the Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks.

As Wagoner shared, the 49ers will need to improve their defensive front and wide receiver groups this offseason. San Francisco’s pass rush really took a hit without Nick Bosa and was one of the worst in the NFL this past season. They will return Bosa and rookie Mykel Williams, who also tore his ACL, but adding an interior defensive lineman makes sense.

Additionally, the 49ers will certainly need an influx of talent at wide receiver. Jauan Jennings is a pending free agent and may price himself out of San Francisco’s range after two quality seasons as a featured receiver. Ricky Pearsall should project as a starter in 2026, but injuries have been an issue through his first two seasons in the NFL. And the other receiver spot will need a replacement, with Brandon Aiyuk not returning to the team.

Still, San Francisco is seen as a borderline top-five team heading into the offseason.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...tside-top-5-power-rankings-2026-kyle-shanahan

 

[JJ]

OH MAN where do I even start with this mess of a situation in San Fran?

First off - Mac Jones. LOL. The fact that we're even having a conversation about teams potentially offering a FIRST ROUND PICK for Mac freaking Jones tells you everything you need to know about how desperate the QB market is in this league. The Niners are absolutely playing games here and I respect the hustle. "We're not trading him" is NFL-speak for "make us an offer we can't refuse." Classic Shanahan move. That said, if some desperate team actually offers a second rounder for Mac Jones, you take that and RUN. The dude went 5-3 filling in, sure, but let's not pretend he's some hidden gem. Shanahan's system makes everyone look competent.

As for Keion White getting shot - that's absolutely terrible news and I'm glad the surgery went well. Dude wasn't even involved in the altercation and catches a stray bullet? That's just wrong on every level. Hopefully he makes a full recovery.

And those power rankings having us Bills fans at #1? SUBSCRIBE. Though I gotta say, the Niners at #6 feels about right. You guys need serious help at receiver and that pass rush without Bosa was ROUGH to watch.

The real question is whether Jennings prices himself out. That dude balled out when given the chance.

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers exit interviews, OL: There’s a glaring hole holding the offensive line back

NEW ORLEANS, LA - SEPTEMBER 14: Connor Colby #75 of the San Francisco 49ers blocks during the game against the New Orleans Saints at the Caesars Superdome on September 14, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The 49ers defeated the Saints 26-21. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers have plenty of moving parts on offense during 2025. Trent Williams began the season playing next to Ben Bartch, but that only lasted a game and nine snaps. From Connor Colby back to Bartch, splitting time with Spencer Burford, the Niners couldn’t find any consistency at left guard until the final month of the season.

The offensive line also needed to adjust to life without George Kittle early in the season, and that wasn’t even the biggest adjustment. After a summer of getting used to hearing Brock Purdy’s cadence, Mac Jones started the second game of the season and the majority of the first half.

All in all, especially factoring in expectations, you could argue that the 49ers’ offensive line overachieved and was a strength in 2025. After it became routine during games for fans to shout, “Bench Jake Brendel!” or “Take Colton McKivitz out!”, those two had arguably their best seasons as pros.

That’s not to say changes are needed. Age is becoming a concern for a couple of starters. That could be addressed either during the upcoming NFL Draft or through free agency. Before we look ahead, let’s discuss some of the strengths and weaknesses of the offensive line.

Strengths​

It’s tricky when you play with one quarterback who wants to get the ball out quickly, while the other quarterback has zero issues holding the ball in hopes of making a play. The 49ers’ scheme and quarterback play affect some of these numbers. Still, giving your quarterback, on average, the sixth-longest time to throw in 2025 is a sign that things are going well up front. San Francisco also finished 11th in sack percentage allowed and was 13th in time to pressure.

Individually, the 49ers had some stellar performances that are worthy of being highlighted.

Second-year pro Dominick Puni was battling an injury that kept him out for the first month and a half of the season. But from Week 7 on, Puni pitched multiple shutouts and really had one “bad” game.

Center Jake Brendel finished 19th among all offensive linemen in blown block rate as a pass protector.

The scheme helped protect everybody else thanks to the 37-year-old left tackle playing on an island. It wasn’t Trent Williams’ best year, but he was asked to do far more than anybody else, and the 49ers’ identity up front still revolves around its left tackle.

Brendel, Puni, and Colton McKivitz were all top 23 in Sports Info Solutions’ “run block points earned” stat. Only four linemen in the league had a lower blown block rate than McKivitz did. Williams finished in the top 30 in that same stat.

Weaknesses​

The offensive line is all about cohesion, and if one position is off, it ruins it for the entire unit. You’ll notice everybody above was highlighted outside of left guard. It’s tough to fault Connor Colby for struggling. He was a seventh-round rookie thrown into the fire. The same is true for Spencer Burford, who had some intriguing moments late in the year but was far from consistent.

So, despite having quality run blockers up and down the line, the Niners finished middle of the pack in “stuffed percentage,” or a run results in zero or negative yardage, rushing success rate, and allowed the fourth-worst yards before contact in the NFL.

During the first couple of months of the season, you could see how the revolving door at left guard impacted the running game. Run plays to the left with Williams not knowing who to block were a sign that somebody messed up. We can probably throw the tight ends in the mix here, too.

Colby and Burford both had blown block rates of 6.3 in pass pro. Aaron Banks had his worst season in 2024, with a 3.3 blown-block rate in pass protection. The 49ers made the mistake of thinking they could replace Banks with a veteran who hadn’t stayed healthy throughout his career, and paid for it by having to play players they had no intention of playing once Bartch went down.

How does the offensive line look in 2026?​

Trent Williams is under contract for one more season. An extension will give the 49ers an extra $16.8 million in 2026, making the move a no-brainer, despite him being 38 come 2026.

Brendel’s contract is also up after next year, so the center position becomes a priority in this draft. Brendel will turn 34, and his backup, Matt Hennessy, is an unrestricted free agent.

Puni’s rookie deal runs through 2027, while McKivitz is under contract through the 2028 season.

Bartch and Burford are unrestricted free agents, meaning left guard is near the top of the list of needs.

• LT Trent Williams
• LG Rookie?
• C Jake Brendel
• RG Dominick Puni
• RT Colton McKivitz

Banks was the highest pick the team used on an offensive lineman since Mike McGlinchey. Puni was a third-rounder. That might be the ceiling when it comes to adding an offensive lineman.

The 49ers should go back to the Iowa well. Beau Stephens would be an upgrade at left guard and could even potentially slide over to center if need be. At his size, Stephens should be available on Day 3.

If the 49ers want to convert a tackle to guard on Day 3 as they did with Puni, Duke’s Brian Parker fits the bill. He’s been Duke’s right tackle for the previous two seasons. He started at left tackle a handful of times. That experience, as well as being a first-team all-conference player, should attract the 49ers. Parker’s competitiveness stands out, as does his first couple of steps out of his stance. Parker played guard and center at the Shrine Bowl, so the transition has already begun.

The biggest issue with Burford and Colby was their inaccurate strike timing. That’s a strength for Parker, who is disciplined and strong enough to anchor against a bull rush. It’s worth pointing out that Parker is somewhat stiff and high-cut, which will only be exposed more at the NFL level.

If the 49ers want to go the Banks route again, Keylan Rutledge is 6’4″, 330 pounds, and has a few years of starting experience, although it is as a right guard. He is truly a power player with physical traits you can’t teach.

The 49ers should use multiple Day 3 picks on the offensive line with the hopes of finding a starter, but at worst, upgrading their depth.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...-glaring-hole-holding-the-offensive-line-back

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Would a Deebo Samuel reunion make sense for the 49ers?

During the weekend of the Super Bowl, there were clips of former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel hanging out with Trent Williams.

Earlier in the week, when he was being interviewed, Christian McCaffrey said, “Deebo’s one of my favorite guys I’ve ever played with. We all love Deebo. Our whole staff loves Deebo. All of the players on the team love Deebo. We love Deebo. I thinky yeah, there’s no question that he would be welcomed back.”

The hat trick was George Kittle, who also spoke about reuniting with Samuel: “My one message for Niners fans: Hey, if a rebuild year got us 13 wins and a win in the wild card, that’s pretty good. It’s only gonna get a little bit better from that, and all the boys are coming back again. And who knows? We might add some past friends.”

When Kittle was asked to be more specific about the past friends part of that statement, he said, “I don’t know. I hung out with Deebo last night. That was fun. I love Deebo. That’s all. I love Deebo.”

It should be no surprise that a player who put his body on the line for the 49ers in the way Deebo Samuel did during his tenure with the team is beloved. McCaffrey saw what Deebo could do in 2023, but Kittle saw Deebo mature as a player and what he did in an unbelievable 2021 season.

The only part I’d disagree with is Kittle calling 2025 a rebuild season. Sure, there was turnover, but the 49ers were projected to win double-digit wins. No matter who they lost, they were always going to be in the playoff hunt.

Anyway, let’s decide whether a Deebo Samuel reunion makes sense for the 49ers. We know how he would fit into a Kyle Shanahan offense.

In 2025, Deebo caught a league-high 43 screens and was just one of three wide receivers with at least 10 percent of their routes coming on screens. It’s also worth noting that Samuel had a career-low 1.3 yards per route run from the slot, which was where he lined up 58.3 percent of the time, a career-high.

Samuel could potentially replace Skyy Moore as the kickoff returner. Deebo averaged 30.1 yards last season. But you can see how the wear and tear over the years has worn on him as a wideout. His 6.4 average depth of air yards per target was the lowest since 2022. Yet, Deebo still had six drops. He also only averaged 6.6 yards after the catch per reception. Samuel had never been under 8.5 since 2019.

The 49ers need a wide receiver who can separate, win at the catch point, and create after the catch. Samuel’s 2025 numbers suggest that’s not him as a player.

Different valuations believe Samuel will earn around $13 million a season. That would be surprising to see the 49ers offer that contract, even if it is for a beloved teammate like Samuel.

Ultimately, while a move might make sense for the locker room, on the field, outside of kickoff return, this would not be a move that makes the team more competitive in 2026.

What do you think? Would you bring Deebo back if you were the 49ers? Under what terms? Scroll down below and let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...deebo-samuel-reunion-make-sense-for-the-49ers

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Mac Jones acknowledges Kyle Shanahan’s interest in 2021 NFL Draft

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 17: Mac Jones #10 of the San Francisco 49ers scrambles during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers made one of the best quarterback signings in free agency last offseason when they inked Mac Jones to a two-year, $8.4 million deal to back up Brock Purdy. Of course, at the time, the 49ers were just looking for an upgrade and stability at the position after having Joshua Dobbs and Brandon Allen in that role in 2024.

But the signing turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as Jones started eight games for the 49ers this season while Purdy was dealing with a toe injury. He impressed, going 5-3 as the starter with a number of memorable games, including the 49ers’ 26-23 win over the Los Angeles Rams on the road in Week 5. In that win, Jones threw for 342 yards and two touchdowns while leading the 49ers to a huge upset.

Jones finished the season with 2,151 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions, while executing head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system well after being called up from the bench. It’s not the first time that Jones and Shanahan have intertwined, as the quarterback was heavily rumored to land in San Francisco during the 2021 NFL Draft.

Instead, the 49ers took Trey Lance at No. 3 overall, while Jones fell to the New England Patriots at No. 15 overall. Jones would spend three years there before being traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the 2024 season. Then, he came to the 49ers this past offseason, looking to revitalize his career and learn as a backup, similarly to what Sam Darnold did for a year.

Well, talking on the “Monday Mornings with Mitch” podcast, Jones acknowledged that Shanahan had interest in him during the 2021 predraft process, and wanted the quarterback in San Francisco.

“Kyle and I, we just have a great relationship, and he wanted me to be here with him when I was coming out of the draft,” Jones said, via NFL.com’s Nick Shook. “Obviously, it went in different ways, but that’s what it’s all about — reconnecting with people that either see value in you or whatnot.”

Well, Jones’s gamble to be a backup in San Francisco has paid off for both sides, as the quarterback provided confidence that he could be a spot starter, while also bumping up his trade value. Over the weekend, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the 49ers don’t have any intentions to trade Jones and instead still expect him back as the backup for 2025.

Jones has a cap hit of $3.98 million for the 2026 season, according to Spotrac, so he’d be one of the most cost-effective solutions for the backup quarterback spot. He could recoup the 49ers a compensatory pick if he walks after the 2026 season, so if a trade were to be made, significant draft capital is likely involved.

Still, looking back a few years ago, we’ve finally heard the truth that Shanahan was interested in Jones during the predraft process, and it’s interesting how full circle that came about.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...021-nfl-draft-interest-trey-lance-brock-purdy

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

The evergreen question: Can the 49ers find help for George Kittle this offseason?

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 11: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers looks on before the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It was an eventful season for the San Francisco 49ers’ tight ends. George Kittle looked well on his way to another All-Pro year after four catches, a couple of first downs, and a touchdown against the eventual Super Bowl champions in the opening quarter of the season.

We would not see Kittle again until Week 7.

Over the next month and a half, a guy named Jake Tonges caught four touchdowns and had a game against a playoff team in which he was targeted 11 times. Free agent signing Luke Farrell’s most memorable moment during that span was a fumble on the road in a game where the 49ers ended up losing.

Despite missing all that time, Kittle still ended up being among the most valuable pass catchers in the NFL. The passing game isn’t even the area where the offense missed Kittle’s presence the most.

It’s not a great sign if your offense can’t function if you remove one player from it, but the Niners struggled mightily to generate anything positive on the ground with Kittle. Their rushing numbers fell off a cliff. The playoff defenses didn’t have to respect it, which put more pressure on the backup quarterback.

Let’s get into the strengths and weaknesses of this group.

Strengths​

You’d have no idea Kittle was coming off a hamstring injury at 32 if you watched him. The 49ers’ quarterbacks had a perfect passer rating when targeting Kittle on throws 10+ yards downfield. Kittle led the NFL with +156 receiving yards over expected despite missing those six games.

Kittle ended up catching 92 percent of his catchable targets while averaging 4.6 yards after the catch. He is what a Hall of Famer looks like. Week 10, when Mac Jones didn’t have any other options against the Rams, Kittle caught all nine of his targets. That kind of consistency became the norm for Kittle.

One of the coolest stories of the 49ers’ season was Tonges coming out of nowhere. He had at least 35 receiving yards in four games without Kittle. The offense needed every one of Tonges’s four touchdowns. Surprisingly, Tonges finished seventh among tight ends in passer rating when targeted. He looked like he belonged.

Weaknesses​

The 49ers could not figure out how to get Kittle and Tonges on the field together. That remains one of the most baffling parts of the season.

Tonges had ten targets on 25 routes with Brock Purdy on third down. Seven of those resulted in first downs, including a touchdown. Kittle was only targeted 12 times on 55 third-down routes with Purdy. How does an offense struggle to feature Kittle on a down as important as third, but not Tonges?

Kittle’s 33-year-old season will be coming off an Achilles injury. Experts are optimistic Kittle will return to full health, but will he be a step slower?

The lack of other tight ends being able to function as blockers or pass catchers really hurt the team without Kittle. The 49ers’ explosive rush rate dropped from 11.2 percent to 5.8 percent without Kittle, while the average yards per carry went from 4.1 to 3.3. The 49ers rushed for 11 touchdowns with Kittle and only one without him.

The coaching staff couldn’t trust Tonges as a blocker, but Farrell, at 258 pounds, offered little in the passing game. Farrell’s lack of versatility makes you wonder if he’ll be a cap casualty this offseason.

How does the tight end room look in 2026?​

We ranked tight end as the 6th-most pressing need this offseason. That might be low, given Kittle’s injury and the lack of experience behind him. Here’s how the tight end room looks heading into 2026:

• George Kittle
• Jake Tonges
• Luke Farrell
• Brayden Willis

Farrell is under contract through 2027 with an affordable cap number. It’ll be his 29-year-old season next year. He’s the epitome of a blocking tight end, although there were enough exposures to question his expertise there.

Tonges is a restricted free agent. It’ll be interesting to see whether another team offers Tonges a contract.

It’s early in mock draft season, but the 49ers are already being mocked a Kittle replacement. Kenyon Sadiq would quell any concerns about this position. He’s versatile, can block, win underneath as a receiver, but also stretch the field. Ohio State has a tight end who may make Kyle Shanahan salivate as a blocker. The 49ers could wait later in the draft and still find a tight end to contribute early. It’s a good year to need a tight end.

Then there is Kyle Pitts, who could follow Raheem Morris from Atlanta. You’ll have to pay a pretty penny for Pitts’ services, but he seems well worth the investment.

Other names in free agency may attract the 49ers, like Isaiah Likely, David Njoku, Dallas Goedert, Noah Fant, or Tyler Higbee. I could see the team being interested in Charlie Kolar. There is no shortage of options in free agency, either.

It’s the ideal offseason to address the position.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...rs-find-help-for-george-kittle-this-offseason

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Evaluating 49ers 2025 draft class rookies on offense: There’s still a lot of what-ifs

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 03: Jordan Watkins #17 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers had one of the deepest draft classes in the NFL last offseason, taking 11 players in the 2025 NFL Draft, as they looked to get younger and add depth at key positions.

Defense was the name of the game early, as the 49ers took defensive players with their first five picks before selecting wide receiver Jordan Watkins at the end of the fourth round. Several players were forced into big roles early, and a number of rookies flashed in Year 1.

With the season over, let’s look back and evaluate every rookie’s season and what to expect in 2026. Earlier this month, I looked at all the rookies on defense and evaluated their seasons. Now, it’s time to look at the five offensive rookies and their production.

WR Jordan Watkins (Round 4, Pick 138)

As for a couple of players on the list, injuries were the name of the game for Watkins this season. He played in only four games for the 49ers, catching two passes for 26 yards. When considering his draft stock, that can be seen as disappointing, but maybe not out of the ordinary for a fourth-round pick on a talented team.

But Watkins had a really good offseason, consistently flashing as a speedy receiver, which the 49ers badly needed this season without Brandon Aiyuk.

However, injuries limited him for the first two months of the season, and he only made his NFL debut in Week 8, catching one pass while playing five offensive snaps. He caught another pass against the New York Giants the week after while playing six snaps, but only saw two in Week 10 against the Los Angeles Rams.

He played in only one more game this season while dealing with other injuries. The 49ers need more speed, so Watkins should compete in 2026, but he was behind a number of veterans who were inconsistent late in the season.

RB Jordan James (Round 5, Pick 147)

James was drafted to be a backup for the 49ers, who were returning Isaac Guerendo and Christian McCaffrey. But, seeking an upgrade at the spot, San Francisco traded for Brian Robinson before the season to back up McCaffrey.

That put James even lower on the depth chart for carries, so he didn’t make much of an offensive impact this year. A finger injury also limited him to only three games this season, and he had no touches on offense, although he did see some special teams snaps when playing.

This is another what-if. Guerendo doesn’t seem like the backup of the future, so an opening is there. But will the 49ers trust James to fill that role?

QB Kurtis Rourke (Round 7, Pick 227)

You can’t really evaluate this pick because the 49ers specifically drafted Rourke with 2026 and beyond in mind. The former Indiana quarterback was coming off a torn ACL and was expected to miss much of the 2025 season. With Mac Jones in place and Adrian Martinez as the No. 3 quarterback, there was no need to have much of an impact from Rourke in 2025.

Now, expect him to be the No. 3 quarterback behind Jones (assuming the 49ers keep him) in 2026, with the possibility of a bigger role in the future.

OL Connor Colby (Round 7, Pick 249)

Colby was one of San Francisco’s more important rookies this season in a variety of ways. He impressed during the offseason and was immediately thrust into a bigger role when Ben Bartch went down with a multi-week injury, stepping in at left guard to start the year.

That came with its ups and downs. Colby had his flashes in the run game, but definitely saw his fair share of struggles with pass protection and communication, and it was clear he wasn’t fully ready for the opportunity.

Offensive line is a position that takes time to develop, and getting one in the seventh round is primarily for depth purposes. That’s what Colby will be for the next few years, with the possibility to develop into a low-end starter late in his rookie contract.

WR Junior Bergen (Round 7, Pick 252)

This was a pick that I questioned at the time, and it feels like a big question mark one year in. Yes, the 49ers spent a late seventh-round pick here, so the expectations won’t be that high.

But Bergen was drafted primarily for his special teams help as a returner. He didn’t offer much as a receiver, which the 49ers prefer from their returners, and didn’t play in a single game this season. There just didn’t feel like much floor or upside here.

It feels like he’ll have an uphill battle to make the roster in 2026.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...025-draft-class-rookies-offense-kyle-shanahan

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: They better give the 49ers a MNF after Australia

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 09: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers dives for a touchdown during the NFL 2025 game between Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Potential date for 49ers historic Australia game revealed per report
“Puck sports correspondent John Ourand reported the 49ers and Rams will either play Wednesday, Sept. 9 or Thursday, Sept. 10.”

Fred Warner’s guarantee caps off busy Super Bowl week for 49ers players, coach (paywall)
“I put it away completely because it didn’t go well, and it is so personal,” Shanahan said on the broadcast. “But I always watch it the day before (the players) get back. I put it off as long as I can, but the day before (they) enter the building, I gotta be on top of it. I gotta know what happened, and I gotta know how to address (them) and I gotta know how to prepare going forward.”

Shanahan also lost the big game as a coordinator with the Atlanta Falcons. He figures he is due for a Super Bowl win. Or three.

“I’ve been able to be in nine of these (Super Bowls), six of them with my dad, (and) I went to three on my own,” he said. “I just look at it as he got blown out in his first three, and then he won his next three.

“I’ve got my three losses out of the way, and when we get Fred back healthy, I got three wins in front of me.”

Besides getting players back healthy, the 49ers need an injection of speed on offense, a big guard, some pass-rush help and a playmaker in the secondary. And maybe they bring back a familiar face.

That’s what Kittle was hinting at when he gave “SI Now” a message for 49ers fans.

“Hey, if a rebuild year got us 13 wins and a win in the wild card, that’s pretty good,” Kittle said. “It’s only going to get a little better than that, and all the boys are coming back again. And who knows, we might have some past friends.”

Kittle was asked who he was talking about.

“I don’t know,” Kittle said. “I hung out with Deebo (Samuel) last night. That was fun. … I love Deebo.”

Samuel left the 49ers in a trade to Washington last March. He is a free agent after posting 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns for the Commanders.

If Kittle was being coy, he might have instead been referring to former 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who could be cut by the Denver Broncos in a salary-saving move after appearing in only eight games. Greenlaw, 28, played his first six seasons with the 49ers.“

49ers address long-ignored position in two 2026 NFL mock drafts
“Freeling (6-7, 315) earned an 85.7 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) in 2025, allowing just three sacks and nine pressures across 469 pass-blocking snaps. While his 61.7 run-blocking grade dipped from his 71.4 mark in 2024, Podell believes the player can excel in that area at the NFL level.

“Freeling needs to work on being better about connecting on his punches toward opposing defensive linemen, which could be aided by a more balanced foundation in his core,” Podell added. “He’s ready to roll in the run game”….”There aren’t many people on earth who are 6-foot-7 and 360 pounds, and are both athletic and skilled enough to be dominant in the SEC,” Weil wrote. “Kaydn Proctor was a five-star recruit who lived up to the hype. He overpowers defenders and has impressive athleticism.”

Proctor posted strong PFF marks in 2025, earning an 86.1 overall offensive grade, an 81.1 run-blocking grade, and an 84.2 pass-blocking grade. He surrendered 21 pressures but just two sacks over 611 pass-blocking snaps, and his combination of size and athleticism will undoubtedly intrigue several NFL teams.

“If Proctor masters his technique, he could end up as a top player from this draft class and help San Francisco stay among the top teams in the league,” Weil noted.”

Behind the Curtain: What to make of KC Concepcion (paywall)
“Here’s my early impression of Concepcion, for those of you unable to watch the tape, or who want to read the bulletpoints first. I give a grade and summary at the end of the video.

Strengths

• Snappy, waste-free route-running off the line
• High-level YAC potential
• Willing blocker
• Clean release, particularly on vertical routes
• Attacks the ball in the air

Weaknesses

• Struggles with physical corners. Might be a zone guy, not a press beater
• Shifty, but lacking consistent violence in breaking out of his routes…“

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...tle-seahawks-offseason-mock-draft-free-agency

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Golden Nuggets: Happy Valentine’s Day to all the 49ers draft crushes

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch, center, talks with head coach, Kyle Shanahan, left, as 49ers CEO Jed York, seen in the reflection of Lynch's sunglasses, stand by them during the team's training camp in Santa Clara, California on July 28, 2017. (Dai Sugano/Bay Area News Group) (Photo by MediaNews Group/Bay Area News via Getty Images) | MediaNews Group via Getty Images

49ers mock draft: A disruptive pass rusher, two big receivers and a young CMC (paywall)
“The good news: The draft is teeming with receivers and defensive linemen this year, especially from the end of Round 1 to Round 4. Cornerback, safety, linebacker and tight end also have good depth.

The bad news: Once again, there’s a dearth of offensive tackles after the first few. There also don’t seem to be many top-end quarterbacks — which might make Mac Jones’ trade market more interesting — and running back looks particularly bleak, too…..

…..According to Pro Football Focus, [DE Akheem Mesidor, Miami] had a pass-rush win rate of 21.2 percent. To put that in perspective, Bain’s was 22.9 percent.

So how does a guy with numbers like that slip to No. 27? Mesidor might not have elite length — his height and arm length will be scrutinized at the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine — and he’ll also turn 25 three weeks before the draft. That means he’s more than three years older than the 49ers’ first-round pick last year, Mykel Williams….Round 4: DT Chris McClellan, Missouri. McClellan doesn’t get pushed around. He measured 6 feet 3 and 315 pounds with 34-inch arms and nearly 11-inch hands, the largest at this year’s Senior Bowl. He’s always been a good run stopper, and in 2025, he added six sacks and 21 quarterback pressures to his resume. A line composed of Nick Bosa, McClellan, Alfred Collins and Williams would be hard to run against.

G Jaeden Roberts, Alabama: With Spencer Burford and Ben Bartch scheduled to be free agents, the 49ers might need to find a new left guard. Roberts is massive — 6-5, 335 with an 83-inch wingspan. (By comparison, former 49ers left guard Aaron Banks’ wingspan was just under 81 inches.) Roberts moves well for his size and gets excellent push on inside runs. The 49ers used to run behind the big-bodied Banks in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Roberts could have similar value. One caveat: His starts at Alabama came primarily at right guard.”

Analyzing 49ers’ franchise tag outlook as important 2026 NFL offseason begins
“And around the league, there do not appear to be many answers for the 49ers among the players who are under consideration for the tag from their respective teams.

One of the 49ers’ most glaring needs is at wide receiver — especially if Jennings is not re-signed.

There is a strong chance the Dallas Cowboys tag wide receiver George Pickens, who is probably not a good fit for the 49ers anyway. Pickens had 1,429 yards receiving last season.

The 49ers demand that their receivers get involved in the run game. Pittsburgh traded Pickens to Dallas a year ago after a season amid criticism of his effort as a blocker.

And it seems highly unlikely free-agent-to-be Deebo Samuel and the 49ers get back together just one season after both sides agreed that their union had run its course.

Samuel, 30, is clearly on the downward slope. He caught 72 passes for 727 yards (a career-low 10.1 yards per reception) last season with Washington.

He is scheduled for free agency. Despite the Commanders having plenty of cap space, Samuel does not appear to be worth $28 million a year at this stage of his career.“

Kawakami Mailbag: The Kerr-Lacob-Dunleavy triangle, Curry’s future, 49ers blame, and more (paywall)
“I’d say the fastest way the 49ers can push themselves into true Super Bowl contention next season would be to acquire a game-breaking wide receiver — to match Seattle’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba and the Rams’ Puka Nacua. I just don’t see the 49ers making a big leap with the WRs they’ve got (and they might lose Jauan Jennings to free agency, too).”

Insider: If the 49ers move practice facility, it won’t be for the reason you think
“They could use more room,” Kawakami noted. “The football office building is very old and cramped. I could see them eventually moving the football offices and fields to another, nearby location — not because of the substation, but because everything changes and gets updated eventually….”

“If the 49ers are the top bidder and right fit, they’ll get the free agent,” Kawakami wrote. “The 49ers have been practicing next to this substation for decades. The players are fully aware of it. The buzzing is unmistakable. They joke about it, but do you think a single player has made a career decision based on the substation’s placement? No.”

49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk to Commanders? Jayden Daniels open to reunion
“There’s a couple of individuals that are out there,” Daniels said. “Maybe somebody from Arizona State, in my past.”

When asked whether that player resides on the West Coast, Daniels replied, “Yeah.”

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...o-australia-mailbag-brock-purdy-george-kittle

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers prioritize defensive line in The Athletic’s mock draft

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 19: Akheem Mesidor #3 of the Miami Hurricanes reacts after sacking Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers during the third quarter in the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium on January 19, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) | Getty Images

So is it offensive or defensive line? The Athletic’s Matt Barrows has the defensive line getting the priority in the 2026 NFL Draft, along with a couple of wide receivers.

In his recent mock, Barrows did a rundown of the 49ers’ seven selections in the draft. He didn’t just stop with the first or second round, instead going through all seven picks. It certainly shows how this particular NFL draft class isn’t deep with offensive linemen.

The full rundown is here:

• Rd, 1, No. 27: DE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
• Rd 2, No. 58: WR Elijah Sarratt, Indiana
• Rd 3, No. 92: WR Ted Hurst, Georgia State
• Rd. 4: DT Chris McClellan, Missouri
• Rd. 4: G Jaeden Roberts, Alabama
• Rd. 4: LB Lander Barton, Utah
• Rd. 5: RB/WR Eli Heidenreich, Navy

This haul isn’t exactly something I’d personally hate. The only question mark I’d have is the two wide receiver picks. A lot will depend on Jauan Jennings/Kendrick Bourne returning to the team. Jordan Watkins also needs to be included in the 2026 plans. The 49ers need a wide receiver, but a second and third rounder one after another?

As far as the first pick, defensive end Akeem Mesidor, here’s Barrows reasoning for it:

No, Miami defensive end Rueben Bain won’t be available at pick No. 27. But his bookend on the Hurricanes’ defensive line could be. Mesidor was nearly as destructive as Bain in 2025, finishing with 12.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. According to Pro Football Focus, he had a pass-rush win rate of 21.2 percent. To put that in perspective, Bain’s was 22.9 percent.

So how does a guy with numbers like that slip to No. 27? Mesidor might not have elite length — his height and arm length will be scrutinized at the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine — and he’ll also turn 25 three weeks before the draft. That means he’s more than three years older than the 49ers’ first-round pick last year, Mykel Williams.

The 25-years of age isn’t so concerning. It’s not exactly like quarterback Brandon Weeden, who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2012 at 28 years old. Does it raise some developmental concerns? I guess, but 25 seems….not too concerning. I guess. Size is where I get tripped up. His draft profile on NFL.com says he has an average speed-to-power conversion. Maybe the combine can give us more information on that and what he can make up for with his limited size.

The rest of the picks, I don’t hate, though two receivers back-to-back makes me raise an eyebrow. A tackle of the future would be nice in round two or three to go with the Jaeden Roberts pick in round four. Again, this isn’t a very deep class for offensive linemen. If the 49ers could make a good free agent addition at center to go along with Roberts, maybe this would get the line figured out, with the exception of Trent Williams, for whom they (still) wouldn’t have an answer for with these picks.

That final pick is something worth mentioning. Eli Heidenreich is someone I’ve seen a bit of this year, and all I think of is a younger, cheaper Deebo Samuel. Heidenreich can spell Christian McCaffrey when needed and also bring back the wide-back role Samuel made popular. Or at least increase its production. That pick makes so much sense to be on the 49ers based on what I’ve seen.

What do you think of this mock draft? Is Mesidor the edge the 49ers need?

Do you like Heidenreich?

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...ze-defensive-line-in-the-athletics-mock-draft

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers assistant to interview for Seahawks vacant OC position

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 27: Tight Ends Coach Brian Fleury of the San Francisco 49ers with the tight ends on the sideline during the game against the New Orleans Saints at Levi's Stadium on November 27, 2022 in Santa Clara, California. The 49ers defeated the Saints 13-0. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Seattle Seahawks need a new offensive coordinator after Klint Kubiak took the head coaching job with the Las Vegas Raiders. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, San Francisco 49ers tight ends coach Brian Fleury is interviewing Saturday for the Seahawks’ vacant offensive coordinator position.

Fleury has long ties to Kyle Shanahan: the two originally worked together on the Cleveland Browns’ staff in 2014, before Shanahan hired Fleury in San Francisco as a defensive quality control coach. Fluery spent a season on defense before moving to offense in 2020. Since then, Fleury has been promoted to tight ends coach and, most recently, added the title of run game coordinator.

Seahawks fans might view this as head coach Mike Macdonald trying to gather intel and better understand the 49ers’ thinking on this side of the ball. Recent history would suggest Macdonald doesn’t need any additional assistance to slow down the 49ers.

A logical conclusion is that Fleury is respected by his coaching peers and contributes to the 49ers’ game plan more than we on the outside realize.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...-to-interview-for-seahawks-vacant-oc-position

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Could the 49ers shake up the front office this offseason?

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 11: General manger John Lynch of the San Francisco 49ers looks on prior to in the NFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 11, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Those of you wanting a new general manager for the San Francisco 49ers may have a rumor contributing to that wish.

Niners Nation alum Rob Guerrera hosts The Gold Standard podcast and had Bay Area sports columnist Dieter Kurtenbach as a guest. The topic turned to the 49ers front office with Guerrera saying, “Let somebody else shop for the groceries.”

“There has been conversation about that,” Kurtenbach answered.

“Significant conversation?” Guerrera asked.

“Not enough to where it’s actually happening…”

Had a nice long chat with @dieter today that covered a lot of #49ers topics you may be interested in. Like this one:

The 49ers may have a new de facto GM this offseason.https://t.co/zCWUXxxjdv pic.twitter.com/EDsprREQD1

— Rob “Stats” Guerrera (@StatsOnFire) February 14, 2026

Kurtenbach went on to say that if a hire made in that context in the next couple of weeks, “wouldn’t shock him.”

Hoo boy. It must be a 49ers offseason. Except this isn’t exactly fuel for a fire. Just a sports writer saying that the office of a football team had a conversation about changing things up slightly.

So first things first. Nothing has indicated the 49ers are dissatisfied with the current pecking order of John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan, who report to Jed York—and Kurtenbach isn’t saying that either. He’s only saying there are conversations about a possible role between John Lynch as president of football operations and Kyle Shanahan as head coach. And the conversations are just that: conversations, but nothing significant. If a new role were created, it wouldn’t be surprising. It’s not a conversation about firing Lynch, demoting him, etc., though it remains to be seen what role Lynch would have in this org structure.

It seems it’s just keeping him as the president while hiring a general manager in full title, and Shanahan, as Kurtenbach says, remains the most important voice in the room.

Removing John Lynch from the 49ers entirely would be ill-advised—and there’s been nothing to suggest that, either in this conversation or otherwise. He’s an NFL veteran and an excellent face of the franchise for the 49ers. That said, maybe getting a true general manager between him and Shanahan would help with the responsibilities.

There’s nothing here indicating there’s friction between the two, either. So those of you who want to bring that old friction report up during the duo’s first year can find something else to right-click on. This sounds like the 49ers want to put someone under Lynch that could complement the current org structure. Possibly someone as a true general manager, while Lynch handles… well, whatever John Lynch would handle if he’s not in the GM role.

Which is kind of the question mark: what would Lynch be doing with the 49ers should this happen? Would he go along with this? Was it his idea? For now, it’s just a conversation.

I’m sure we can speculate and overanalyse all we want. From what is happening now, it seems like it was brought up and discussed about a particular person, and that may be it.

Or maybe we’re in for a big change in the front office. John Lynch will address the media at the NFL Scouting Combine, which is coming up soon. Questions about this are bound to come up, or maybe there’s an announcement before a question can come, who knows.

Do you think a change is coming?

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...9ers-shake-up-the-front-office-this-offseason

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers News: Welcome to the Bay, Jerry Gray

8 Oct 1989: Running back Jerry Gray of the Los Angeles Rams in action during a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Anaheim Stadium in Anaheim, California. The Rams won the game, 26-14. | Getty Images

49ers reportedly hiring Jerry Gray for key defensive coach role
“Gray brings decades of NFL experience as both a player and coach. A first-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams in 1985, he spent six seasons with the franchise before closing his playing career with the Houston Oilers in 1992 and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1993.

He began his coaching career at SMU (1995–1996) as a defensive backs coach before breaking into the NFL with the Tennessee Titans organization in 1997. Gray helped guide the franchise to Super Bowl XXXIV during the 1999 season.

Gray later served as the Buffalo Bills’ defensive coordinator from 2001 to 2005. He then worked as a defensive backs coach with Washington (then the Washington Redskins) from 2006 to 2009 and with the Seattle Seahawks in 2010.

He returned to Tennessee as defensive coordinator from 2011 to 2013, then spent six seasons (2014–2019) coaching defensive backs for the Minnesota Vikings and three more (2020–2022) with the Packers. Most recently, Gray spent three seasons (2023–2025) as assistant head coach and defensive assistant with the Atlanta Falcons.

The move reunites Gray with Morris, his former head coach in Atlanta, and adds a seasoned defensive mind to a 49ers staff aiming to reestablish its dominance in 2026.”

49ers offseason advice: Trade Mac Jones, pass on Maxx Crosby, address EMF (paywall)
“But they can replace Jennings, a pending free agent, with Colts’ free-agent wide receiver Alec Pierce, who could reach the open market with Indianapolis needing to prioritize re-signing QB Daniel Jones.

Jennings has a plodding 40-yard dash time (4.72 seconds) and averaged 11.7 yards per catch last season. Pierce has a blazing 40 (4.41) and has led the NFL in yards per catch the past two seasons, averaging 21.3 and 22.3 yards, respectively, while collecting 1,827 receiving yards. Pierce, 25, has already introduced himself to the 49ers: He had touchdown catches of 20 and 16 yards in the 49ers’ 48-27 win in December.

Swapping Jennings for Pierce, financially, could be a wash. Per spotrac.com, Jennings is projected to sign a contract that averages $22.6 million annually. Pierce checks in at $20.2 million.”

Trade or release? 49ers insider weighs in on Brandon Aiyuk’s future
“”I would think, at some point, he will be released,” Maiocco said. “I can’t imagine any team would trade for him. I don’t even know, at this point, we haven’t heard from Brandon, so we don’t know if he wants to continue playing football. That’s where this is, as far as the unanswered questions.”

“So, from the 49ers’ standpoint, I can assure you that they have gone through the NFL Management Council and everything else, as far as just making sure that it’s all up to code,” Maiocco said.

“I don’t, no, because I think that any team that wants him, the 49ers would have to be open and honest about what they dealt with,” Maiocco said. “And Brandon—yeah, I just don’t see it. Every year, there are plenty of good players available in free agency, there’s plenty of good players available in the draft, and I just don’t know, at this point, that anybody really knows what they’d be getting with Brandon Aiyuk.”

“There’s a part of me that would be pleasantly surprised, but surprised if we even see him in the NFL, playing in a regular-season game next season,” Maiocco said. “I just don’t know, and I don’t think anybody really knows where he is, as far as what he views as his next step professionally.”

49ers lose key Kyle Shanahan assistant to NFC West rival Seahawks
“According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the Seattle Seahawks are hiring longtime 49ers assistant Brian Fleury as their new offensive coordinator. He replaces Klint Kubiak, who departed to become head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.”

49ers add ‘three-down disruptor’ in 2026 7-round NFL mock draft
“Elijah has San Francisco selecting Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks with the No. 27 overall pick.

“The 49ers may be looking to add depth and explosiveness to their defensive front, and Florida’s Caleb Banks could provide exactly that,” Elijah wrote. “When fully healthy, Banks projects as a three-down disruptor capable of dominating the interior and pressuring quarterbacks.

“While injuries have slowed his progress, Banks’ upside remains undeniable. His combination of size, athleticism, and raw power gives the 49ers a potential game-changing presence up front, one who can impact both the run and pass and elevate the effectiveness of the entire defensive line.”

“With the 49ers in need of a dynamic wide receiver, [USC WR Ja’Kobi] Lane stands out as a prime candidate,” Elijah explained. “At 6-foot-4, he combines size, length, and athleticism to create mismatches, particularly in the red zone.”

49ers lose longtime assistant Brian Fleury to Super Bowl-champion Seahawks (paywall)
“Fleury played a role in game-planning for the 49ers and was among the coaches who assisted with play-calling during games. Last month, Shanahan explained that offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak, offensive line coach Chris Foerster and Fleury serve as in-game sounding boards and offer suggestions.

“Those are the guys I rely on through play-calling throughout the game,” Shanahan said. “It’s not like I’m just in silence there calling every play. I’m discussing it with the guys we’ve prepared with in the week.”

Fleury was given the title of run game coordinator last year, which was his latest promotion after he joined the 49ers as a defensive quality control coach in 2019. Fleury served as an offensive quality control coach (2020-21) before he spent the past four seasons coaching tight ends.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...anahan-george-kittle-john-lynch-levis-stadium

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers hire veteran DBs coach from Raheem Morris’s old staff

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 03: Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers looks on during the second quarter of a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The San Francisco 49ers are hiring veteran defensive backs coach Jerry Gray to their coaching staff, according to CBS Sports’s Matt Zenitz.

Gray, 63, was the assistant head coach of the defense for the Atlanta Falcons since 2023, but it was initially unclear if he’d remain on staff under new head coach Kevin Stefanski. Ultimately, he’s joining his former head coach Raheem Morris, who was hired earlier this offseason as the defensive coordinator for the 49ers.

Gray is a former player who was selected in the first round of the 1985 NFL Draft. He proceeded to play in the NFL from 1985-93 and became a coach in 1995, starting as a defensive backs coach for the SMU Mustangs.

In the NFL, he’s been a longtime defensive backs coach, having that role with the Tennessee Titans (1999-2000), Washington Redskins (2006-2009), Seattle Seahawks (2010), Minnesota Vikings (2014-2019), and Green Bay Packers (2020). He’s also been a two-time defensive coordinator, and has held other defensive staffer roles in the past.

With Gray coming to San Francisco, Raheem Morris now has a familiar face on that side of the ball from his last stop. The 49ers reportedly wanted to interview Falcons secondary coach Justin Hood earlier this offseason, but that move was blocked by Atlanta.

The 49ers still will have most of their assistants on defense from a year ago, with Kris Kocurek manning the defensive line, Johnny Holland coaching the linebackers, and Ray Brown coaching the cornerbacks. But they did Robert Saleh and Gus Bradley to the Tennessee Titans, so there will be some turnover on the coaching side this offseason.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...h-atlanta-falcons-kyle-shanahan-raheem-morris

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers swap Day 2 picks with the Vikings in hypothetical Mac Jones trade

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 17: Mac Jones #10 of the San Francisco 49ers scrambles during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

There’s this idea that the San Francisco 49ers should hold on to Mac Jones for another year for multiple reasons. One is in case of an injury to starter Brock Purdy. The Niners benefited tremendously from having a quality backup in 2025.

Jones played about as well as any backup in recent memory, especially given the circumstances. With that said, we’ve also seen this story play out several times in the NFL, where the backup gets extra run and shows the world why he wasn’t a starter to begin with.

We are a week removed from a report saying the 49ers have no intentions of trading Jones. We will believe it when we see it, as Jones’ market will never be higher than it is now. There are also numerous holes throughout the roster that the 49ers could use one of the draft picks they’d receive in a Jones trade to address.

ESPN’s Bill Barnwell went through 13 trade scenarios he could see happening this offseason, and one involved the 49ers sending Mac Jones to the Vikings:

Vikings get: QB Mac Jones, 2027 third-round pick
49ers get: 2026 second-round pick, 2027 fifth-round pick (conditional), 2028 third-round pick (conditional)

Jones is due just $4.7 million in 2026, which will be the final year of his contract. And of course, we know that the Vikings have been willing to take a swing on quarterbacks who have gone through the Kyle Shanahan rejuvenation cycle before, having signed Sam Darnold after the now-Super Bowl champion’s only year in San Francisco.

In this deal, the 49ers get a second-rounder for a future third-rounder. There are also two conditional picks, which should help protect them if Jones blossoms in Minnesota. The 2027 conditional pick would trigger based on Jones’ playing time with the Vikings. If he starts four games in 2026, the Vikings send a fifth-round pick out west. If Jones starts 12 games, that gets upped to a third-rounder. And then, if Jones re-signs with the Vikings after the 2026 season and starts at least one game for the Vikings in 2027, the 49ers would land another third-round pick.

If Jones spends just 2025 backing up McCarthy, the 49ers swap only the Day 2 picks. If Jones emerges as the long-term starter in Minnesota, though, the Vikings could send a second-rounder and two third-round picks to the 49ers — a price that Kevin O’Connell would surely be happy to pay for an upgrade at quarterback.

If the 49ers’ front office looks at this from an expectations perspective, they didn’t sign Jones to play in 2025. Now that the season ended, and knowing there’s an opportunity for you to flip a free agent player you signed to a cheap deal in exchange for a second-round pick this year, and a couple of picks in the future, makes it a no-brainer.

The pushback I’d have is to make the picks in 2027, as that is considered one of the better drafts in some time. Regardless, three picks for a backup would be a massive win. The 49ers could find a starter with that second-round pick this year. The Vikings have the 49th overall pick. That would give the Niners ammo to move up, use it on a starter, or trade the pick to acquire a player.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...h-the-vikings-in-hypothetical-mac-jones-trade

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers free agency profile: Buying low on Isaiah Likely’s ideal skill set

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JANUARY 4: Isaiah Likely #80 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after catching a pass during the fourth quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on January 4, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The evergreen question for the San Francisco 49ers this offseason: Can the team find George Kittle some help? It’s an ideal free-agent and draft class to do it in. Kittle suffered an Achilles injury in the playoffs, but is optimistic he’ll return to full form.

Kittle will be 33 next season. While there are no signs that he’s slowing down athletically, you can’t assume that he’ll be the same. We are talking about the outlier of outliers. Let’s say Kittle returns to his All-Pro self. The 49ers still need weapons for Brock Purdy.

There is a tight end who will be on the open market that fits Kyle Shanahan’s offense like a glove. Today, we’ll discuss Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely and why he has the ideal skill set for the 49ers.

The box score might do the 49ers a favor in this instance. Nobody will confuse the Ravens for having an aesthetic passing game, despite their offensive coordinator getting a head coaching job this offseason.

Likely went back-to-back games this season with six targets–he had 95 yards in one of those– and then went the next two games without a target. That had to be maddening for Ravens’ fans, as the 95-yard game came against the Bengals, only to see him not a part of the game plan two weeks later.

Likely had gains of 43, 35, and 26 this past season, averaging 11.4 yards per reception on his 36 targets. He was consistent in that regard, averaging 11.4 yards on 58 targets in 2024, with six receptions of at least 19 yards. The difference between the two seasons, aside from volume, was touchdowns. Likely only scored one in 2025, but found the end zone six times in 2024.

Likely turns 26 in April, giving the 49ers a young, athletic tight end who still hasn’t reached his peak to pair with Kittle, especially as Kittle works himself back into football form after the Achilles injury.

Likely’s receiving production could replace Jauan Jennings. He only had one drop in the previous two years. Forty-four percent of his targets resulted in first downs this past year, while that number was as high as 61.9 percent in 2024. Again, consistency, despite a low target share. When the ball is coming his way, Likely is going to catch it– unless the refs overturn an obvious touchdown in the end zone.

Likely’s blocking prowess will be what catches the 49ers’ eye. He’s athletic enough to execute blocks on the move, which is something the 49ers want to do in the running game. I would almost consider him an upgrade over Kyle Juszczyk in this regard. Speaking of, Juszczyk’s contract has no guaranteed money after 2026. Plus, he’s 35. It might be time to turn the page from Juice, making Likely the pseudo fullback in the offense.

Watch No. 80:

Zay Flowers takes it himself for the lead!

NEvsBAL on NBC
Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/iRatb21gFD

— NFL (@NFL) December 22, 2025

He did something similar to the Chiefs and the Texans during the previous two seasons. On a screen pass in December, Likely took a Packers linebacker for a sleigh ride around Christmas:

Isaiah Likely blocking his ass off on this screen. Love to see it! pic.twitter.com/xgRAMgB3qH

— Chris Cooper (@ChrisCooper_NFL) December 28, 2025

Likely is a willing blocker with the ideal attitude and athleticism.

Most of his targets in 2025 came under 10 yards, but he had an average separation of 4.2 yards on those 27 targets. On six targets between 10 and 19, the average was 2.2, which is still impressive. Likely caught two of these three deep targets, averaging 1.6 yards of separation.

His usage should also make him easy to scout. Most of his routes were in-breaking routes, which is the 49ers’ forte. Likely averaged 14.8 yards per reception and caught 12 of his 19 targets for 177 yards, including 80 yards after the catch.

The 49ers could run in 12 personnel and not tip their hand as to whether it’s a run or a pass. They did not have that luxury with Jake Tonges, which is probably why we didn’t see him sharing the field with Kittle last year.

Likely won’t be for everybody, but he feels like the type of tight end the Niners have been eyeing for years. Likely never had more than 500 receiving yards during his rookie contract, which feels like a perfect time to buy low on him. Spotrac’s market value projects that Likely will receive a two-year deal for $17.6 million. That contract would be around the 16th-highest in the league at his position, and one the 49ers could easily stomach.

If the personnel department feels like the tight ends in the draft might take time assimilating into the NFL, then Likely should be a prime target during free agency.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...-buying-low-on-isaiah-likelys-ideal-skill-set

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

Maxx Crosby gives 49ers fans hope on his Instagram

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 04: Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on prior to a game against the Kansas City Chiefs on January 04, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to the offseason, where we talk about what a player posts on their social media. In this instance, it’s not just any player. It’s one of the very best in the NFL. Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby. In his story, there are multiple references to Crosby missing the Bay Area. Here’s one:

Raiders DE Maxx Crosby just teased a new song and mentioned buying a new house in the Bay Area

“What can I say, the boy get paid, brand new crib in the Bay. We done touched down in the Bay like Steph and Klay” pic.twitter.com/SgWZuZFidd

— 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙎𝙁𝙉𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨 (@TheSFNiners) February 17, 2026

If you watch another one of his stories that was uploaded early Tuesday morning, it’s a song called “Oakland Pt. 2” by an artist named Karri. The lyrics talk about how he misses Oakland and wants to move back.

Of course, this could be a big old nothing burger and a person reminiscing about a happy period in their life at 6 in the morning. But it’s the offseason, and we do not operate in that manner. The only logical conclusion is that Crosby wants to move back to the Bay Area, and since the San Francisco 49ers are the only team, Crosby will be a Niner. That’s how this works, right?

He’s certainly the type of player you trade for. The 49ers averaged a league low of 1.2 sacks per game. Crosby had half as many sacks (10) as the 49ers (20) did in 2025.

Las Vegas needs a quarterback. Klint Kubiak just won a Super Bowl with Sam Darnold. Perhaps he’d be interested in Mac Jones. That would soften the blow from a draft capital perspective. Theoretically, Jones might mean you only need to include a second-round pick or something that equates to that, as opposed to a first-rounder.

Crosby has a lot of wear-and-tear, will be 29 by the start of the season, so there might be some buyer beware. He has not played a full season during the previous two years. Crosby missed two games last season and only played 12 games in 2024. Still, despite missing a couple of games last season, he was still a menace and among the best of the best.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...crosby-gives-49ers-fans-hope-on-his-instagram

 

[San Francisco 49ers]

49ers retain in-house free agent with first move of offseason

Jan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Nick Zakelj (63) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The 49ers have made their first move of the offseason to keep hold of an in-house free agent. The team announced on Wednesday that it has signed offensive lineman Nick Zakelj to a one-year extension.

Zakelj was a sixth-round pick in 2022 but has started just two games in his four-year career with the 49ers. Last season, he was a member of the 49ers’ practice squad and featured in only three games.

However, with his ability to play both center and guard, Zakelj boasts positional flexibility that makes him a useful backup.

And there is a chance that Zakelj could see himself promoted into a starting role next season.

Indeed, Ben Bartch and Spencer Burford, both of whom started games at left guard this season, are set for unrestricted free agency.

Bartch featured in only six games last season owing to injury. As such, it would be understandable if the 49ers are reluctant to extend a player who has endured consistent problems with injuries over his career.

Burford is coming off one of the better seasons of his career. Yet the inconsistency he has shown since being drafted by the 49ers in 2022 means it is no guarantee he is re-signed. For better or for worse, the 49ers have rarely been shy about going cheap on the offensive line, and it would be no surprise if Zakelj is afforded an opportunity to make the left guard role his.

Even if the 49ers move to re-sign Burford or Bartch, the prospect of a competition involving Zakelj cannot be ruled out.

Given his limited role in 2025, it would appear a stretch to suggest Zakelj could start in 2026. However, with the faith the 49ers have regularly put in offensive line coach Chris Foerster to get the most out of unheralded players, Zakelj’s extension could prove to be more significant than it appears right now.

Source: https://www.ninersnation.com/san-fr...tain-in-house-free-agent-first-move-offseason