By Jacob Bugarin
After a devastating loss to the Buffalo Bills last Sunday, the 49ers are 5-7 and in the bottom of the NFC West (their division), making their playoff hopes bleak and closing the Super Bowl window for them. But this doesn’t mean they can’t go make it next year or the year after. Here is what the 49ers can do to reach such a goal.
HEAL and resign upcoming free agents
In 2020, after the 49ers lost the Super Bowl, the 49ers literally had the most injured players in the NFL at the time. Though, if they do not make the playoffs, they would have more time to heal which is what the 49ers need.
Mentally, physically, and emotionally they are worn down from those three years of not finishing the job. With upcoming free agents, they have to resign or extend contracts, such as quarterback Brock Purdy, linebacker Dree Greenlaw, and many more impactful veterans for the 49ers. Resigning the right people will keep this team elite.
Hire a new offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and Special Teams
During this season, the 49ers had one of the worst red zone offenses in being the 27th team compared to their 2023 season, where they had the best red zone offense. As you know, Kyle Shannhan is an absolute genius coach but hasn’t been calling the best plays,and with a lot on his hands, a good OC (offensive coordinator) would help Kyle out.
The defense for the 49ers has always been a strong point for them, but this year they have one of the worst defenses. One reason is all the injuries but also the scheming on what Nick Soresen does. One thing I didn’t realize is that coaches who coach corners cannot be defensive coordinators. Either Niners hire an actual defensive coach who brings energy to the team or hire the linebacker coach because they are like the quarterbacks of defense. Linebacker coaches know their stuff.
Special Teams has been bad since 2021 and 49ers haven’t had any special success. They need a spark on special teams and players to be able to help out the defense or offense. Hire a new special teams coach, 49ers. You need one badly.
Get Younger through free agent signings and draft
The 49ers have a large age range of players, some upwards of 28 years old. Many veterans, such as George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, Fred Warner, and Trent Williams are either approaching their 30s or in their 30s. Thankfully, the 49ers got some good rookies in this draft, and if they do the same next draft, they will be good contenders next year.
Many free agents next year will hit the market. The 49ers need to target young players who can impact the team. The 49ers develop young players, and they usually become great starters, which I don’t doubt the 49ers can do. Getting younger players to be able to replace some of the older guys on the team may benefit the 49ers future.
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