The 49ers Must Execute a Successful Offseason in 2025 to Reclaim Super Bowl Contention: Five Bold Predictions to Guide Them

The San Francisco 49ers have faced a harsh reality heading into the 2025 season: after a disappointing 6-11 record and a last-place finish in the NFC West, significant changes are necessary to get back on track for Super Bowl contention. To reverse the course, the 49ers must make key decisions and implement strategies that will shape the team’s future. Here are five bold predictions that could help them return to the top of the NFL.

Bold Prediction 1: The 49ers Hire Deshea Townsend as Defensive Coordinator, Not Robert Saleh

After parting ways with former coordinators Brian Schneider and Nick Sorensen, the 49ers must find a suitable replacement to lead the defense in 2025. While many believe Robert Saleh, former defensive coordinator for the 49ers, is the obvious choice, a bold prediction suggests that the 49ers may opt for Deshea Townsend instead. Townsend, the Detroit Lions’ defensive pass game coordinator, has proven his prowess under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn despite facing injuries. His innovative schematic ideas could provide the fresh approach the 49ers need, rather than simply trying to recreate their 2019 defense.

Bold Prediction 2: The 49ers Part Ways with Deebo Samuel, Despite Public Denials

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel’s performance in 2024 has sparked speculation about his future with the team. Despite general manager John Lynch’s statement that the 49ers have no interest in moving Samuel, the team’s financial needs and cap space considerations may lead to a surprising decision. Releasing Samuel after June 1 would save nearly $28 million in cap space over the next two years, which the 49ers could allocate towards extending quarterback Brock Purdy. Despite Lynch’s public statements, the 49ers might make the bold decision to part ways with Samuel to secure their financial flexibility.

Bold Prediction 3: The 49ers Retain Faith in Jake Moody

The 49ers may not appear to be a team in need of significant changes, but one area that will likely remain contentious is their kicker position. After a disappointing second year for Jake Moody, the kicker has come under fire, with many questioning whether he’ll be retained. However, despite his struggles, including a lowly 70.6 field-goal percentage in 2024, the 49ers may choose to give Moody another chance. A kicker competition may push him to improve, and the 49ers could stay stubborn in their belief that he can bounce back, making this a bold prediction for the upcoming season.

Bold Prediction 4: The 49ers Trade Up in Round 1 of the NFL Draft

The 49ers hold the No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but with a strong roster, they may look to move up and secure a top talent. Given the likelihood of a run on quarterbacks early in the first round, there could be valuable players slipping down the draft board. The 49ers could seize this opportunity and trade up to a higher spot. The New York Jets, Carolina Panthers, or other teams in need of a quarterback could be prime candidates for the 49ers to engage in trade talks. A bold move could help the team acquire a player who can make an immediate impact.

Bold Prediction 5: The 49ers Draft Michigan Defensive Lineman Mason Graham

The 49ers have long been known for their dominance in the trenches, and in 2025, they will likely continue to emphasize the importance of their defensive line. While Nick Bosa remains a top-tier pass rusher, the interior of the defensive line remains a weak spot. The 49ers may choose to part ways with veteran defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, making it even more crucial to address this area. Enter Mason Graham, a standout defensive lineman from Michigan. Graham is considered one of the top players in this year’s draft class, and the 49ers could land him with a bold move if he falls outside the top five picks. If they manage to secure him, it would be a game-changing decision that bolsters their defense for years to come.

With these five bold predictions, the San Francisco 49ers could position themselves for a successful 2025 offseason, allowing them to return to Super Bowl contention. Time will tell if these bold moves come to fruition, but the 49ers’ front office will need to execute wisely to ensure the team’s future success.