The San Francisco 49ers are heading into one of their most pivotal offseasons in recent memory - and that’s saying something for a team that’s been knocking on the Super Bowl door for several years now. After a 12-5 campaign in 2025 that was marked by grit, resilience, and more than a few injury setbacks, the Niners once again proved they’re built to contend. But with their championship window potentially narrowing, this offseason isn’t just important - it could be defining.
San Francisco enters the 2026 offseason with a healthy $50.3 million in cap space. That’s not a blank check, but it’s enough to make at least one or two significant moves that could reshape the roster. And if the goal is to remain among the NFL’s elite, they’ll need to be bold and strategic.
One name that’s already generating buzz is Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts. Pitts hasn’t quite lived up to the sky-high expectations in Atlanta, but his speed and athleticism still make him one of the most intriguing offensive weapons available.
For a 49ers offense that already boasts playmakers but could use another vertical threat - especially with George Kittle recovering from a late-season ACL injury - Pitts could be a game-changer. He’s not just a contingency plan for Kittle’s rehab; he’s the kind of player who could stretch the field and open up new dimensions in Kyle Shanahan’s scheme.
Of course, the 49ers aren’t just thinking about offense. After last offseason’s financial belt-tightening, they’re in position to make a splash on the defensive side as well.
A name like Trey Hendrickson jumps out - a high-motor edge rusher who can bring consistent pressure off the edge. With Nick Bosa already commanding attention on one side, adding a player like Hendrickson would give San Francisco one of the most feared pass-rushing duos in the league.
There’s also the possibility of going even bigger. Maxx Crosby is the kind of impact defender who doesn’t just elevate a defense - he transforms it.
Crosby’s relentless energy and disruptive ability would be a perfect fit in the 49ers’ aggressive front. But prying him loose from the Raiders would likely require serious draft capital.
That’s where things get interesting.
One potential path to acquiring more draft assets could involve a trade involving quarterback Mac Jones. While Jones hasn’t been a central figure for San Francisco, his value on the market could be just enough to swing a deal that nets the 49ers an extra pick - the kind of ammunition they’d need to make a run at someone like Crosby.
And then there’s the offensive line - always a priority in Shanahan’s system. A big-bodied guard could help solidify the interior, giving the 49ers the kind of trench dominance that’s defined their best teams. Or perhaps they look to the secondary, where a playmaking defensive back could add another layer of versatility and depth.
Let’s not forget the in-house decisions still looming. Re-signing Jauan Jennings may not solve the team’s need for speed, but his toughness, blocking ability, and knack for making contested catches have earned him a valued role in the offense. Shanahan is also high on Ricky Pearsall, who could add some juice to the receiver group once he’s fully healthy.
The bottom line? San Francisco has the resources, the motivation, and the urgency to make serious moves this offseason.
The core is still strong, but windows in the NFL don’t stay open forever. With the right additions - and maybe a bold trade or two - the 49ers can keep that window wide open and make another serious run at a Lombardi.