49ers Have Gotten Worse After Free Agency, Says PFF

A Difficult Offseason for San Francisco
The San Francisco 49ers faced a challenging free agency period, with more key players departing than arriving. While some of these moves were expected due to salary cap constraints and contract demands, the sheer number of losses has significantly impacted the team’s roster. The question now is whether the 49ers can still contend in 2025 or if they have taken a step backward.

Key Departures Leave Glaring Holes
Among the biggest losses are Dre Greenlaw, Maliek Collins, Talanoa Hufanga, and Charvarius Ward. These players played crucial roles in the team’s defensive identity, and their absence creates significant gaps. While the front office attempted to make strategic signings, the replacements may not match the caliber of the departing talent. Pro Football Focus (PFF) has taken note of these changes, arguing that the 49ers have undoubtedly weakened their roster.

New Additions and Their Impact
San Francisco did make some notable signings, including tight end Luke Farrell and quarterback Mac Jones. Farrell’s three-year, $20.25 million contract strengthens the team’s run-blocking but raises questions about his overall value. Meanwhile, Mac Jones provides reliable quarterback depth behind Brock Purdy. Other signings, such as Jason Pinnock and Luke Gifford, bring potential but may not be enough to compensate for the significant losses.

Can the 49ers Still Compete?
Despite their setbacks, the 49ers still have a strong core led by Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams, George Kittle, Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, Brock Purdy, and Deommodore Lenoir. These players provide a solid foundation, and with continued development from their 2024 rookie class, there is still hope for a competitive season.

The Importance of the 2025 NFL Draft
If the 49ers hope to remain contenders, the upcoming NFL Draft will be crucial. Finding impact players to fill the void left by free agency departures will determine whether they can rebound or face another disappointing season. With smart drafting and strong coaching, the 49ers could still make a playoff push, but the road ahead will be more difficult than before.