The 2024 season was a struggle for the San Francisco 49ers. Finishing with a 10-loss record and landing in last place in the NFC West wasn’t part of the plan. But here’s the silver lining: the 49ers’ 2025 schedule could provide a significant competitive edge.
Thanks to the NFL’s scheduling formula, last-place teams get to face other last-place finishers, offering a chance to rebound. Pair that with matchups against weaker divisions, and the 49ers might be perfectly positioned to bounce back next season. Let’s break it all down.
Why the 2025 Schedule Is a Game-Changer
Why the 49ers’ 2025 Schedule Matters
In 2025, the 49ers will face last-place teams from the NFC East, NFC North, and AFC North. That includes games against teams like the Cleveland Browns, who’ve struggled with consistency, and rebuilding squads from the NFC. On top of that, San Francisco’s schedule features the AFC South and NFC South—two divisions often seen as among the NFL’s weakest.
For a team looking to regain momentum, this schedule is a golden opportunity. It’s not just about easier opponents—it’s about creating space to rebuild confidence, adjust strategies, and integrate new talent.
Key Areas for Improvement
While the schedule looks favorable, it’s not a guaranteed ticket to success. For the 49ers to maximize this opportunity, they’ll need to address several critical areas:
1. Offensive Line Upgrades
In 2024, the offensive line was a glaring weakness. Protecting quarterback Brock Purdy is crucial, especially with emerging talents like Ricky Pearsall showing potential. Investing in line reinforcements should be the 49ers’ top priority.
2. Consistent Wide Receiver Play
Speaking of Ricky Pearsall—his breakout performance against the Lions in Week 16 was a game-changer. Logging 141 yards and a touchdown, the rookie demonstrated he could be a key weapon alongside Brandon Aiyuk. The challenge? Making performances like that the norm, not the exception.
3. Defensive Adjustments
The 49ers’ defense, once their cornerstone, lacked consistency in 2024. Rebuilding this unit to its former glory will be essential to complementing the offense and staying competitive against even weaker teams.
Why the 49ers Can’t Rest on Their Laurels
While a last-place schedule can be advantageous, it’s no guarantee. Teams like the Detroit Lions have shown how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL, with savvy free-agent signings and draft picks creating contenders overnight.
San Francisco will need to capitalize on its opportunities, not assume they’ll roll through 2025 unchallenged. Preparing for every game with the same intensity as a division rivalry will be critical.
A Path to Redemption in 2025
The 49ers have been here before—on the edge of despair, only to bounce back stronger. Remember 2019? After a dismal 4-12 season, San Francisco roared back to a Super Bowl appearance. There’s no reason they can’t write another redemption story in 2025.
A softer schedule, rising stars like Pearsall, and smart offseason moves could set the stage for a comeback. The question isn’t whether the 49ers can succeed—it’s whether they’ll seize the opportunity.
The 2025 schedule gives the San Francisco 49ers a rare second chance. But they’ll need to make offseason adjustments, develop their young talent, and show up ready to compete. If they do, there’s no telling how far they could go.
P.S. I spilled coffee on my notes while writing this. A bad omen? Nah, just clumsy.
P.P.S. What do you think of the new kid Pearsall? I’m calling it now: he’s gonna be a star.