What's on the horizon for the San Francisco 49ers? The 2025 season was nothing short of a rollercoaster.
With key players like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa sidelined by season-ending injuries, and quarterback Brock Purdy missing much of the action, the team faced significant adversity. Adding to the challenges, Brandon Aiyuk's departure meant he never suited up for San Francisco again.
Despite these setbacks, the 49ers showed remarkable resilience. They fought their way into the NFC's top ranks, thanks to a spirited offensive effort and a defense that held its ground just enough. Their determination earned them a postseason berth, where they managed to topple the defending champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, before falling to the Seattle Seahawks in the Divisional Round.
Now, the 49ers face a different kind of challenge: their financial situation. Ranked 29th in cap flexibility, they're in a tight spot. In today's NFL, where financial maneuvering is an art, San Francisco finds its options limited.
But all is not lost. There are strategic moves the 49ers can make to free up cap space and enhance their roster.
The most straightforward play? Restructuring the contracts of Nick Bosa and Trent Williams.
In the NFL, restructuring involves converting part of a player's salary into a signing bonus, which reduces the cap hit but extends the contract's financial impact over more years.
Bosa and Williams are the team's biggest cap burdens, with hits of $42 million and $38 million respectively for 2026. Purdy follows with a $25 million cap hit.
By restructuring Bosa and Williams' contracts, the 49ers could free up approximately $33 million in cap space-a logical move considering the alternatives. Cutting either player would be unwise; both are pivotal to any potential playoff success.
Beyond these two, the 49ers must consider the futures of underperforming players like edge rusher Bryce Huff and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson. Huff's season fell short of expectations, with only four sacks in 15 games. Robinson, in his first season with the team, recorded a mere 276 yards on 35 catches, even with injuries plaguing the wide receiver corps.
Both players are potential cut candidates, especially given the financial relief their departures would provide. Releasing Huff could save $5.39 million, while a post-June 1 cut of Robinson would free up about $253,000.
However, there's always the possibility of a resurgence. Huff was a ten-sack player not long ago, and Robinson could be valuable if Jauan Jennings exits in free agency.
If the 49ers believe in their potential bounce-back, restructuring is an option. But if the cost outweighs the benefit, it might be time to part ways.
The 49ers have tough decisions ahead, but with strategic planning, they can navigate these financial waters and keep their competitive edge.