The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for an exciting offseason, with the NFL Combine kicking off and free agency just around the corner. After a solid 13-win season capped with a playoff victory, the 49ers are in a strong position to make significant strides. They've got both the financial flexibility to make moves in free agency and seven draft picks to wield in the 2026 NFL Draft.
However, the task ahead isn't without its challenges. The team needs to address some key areas, particularly at wide receiver and on the defensive line. General Manager John Lynch didn't mince words when he pinpointed the defensive front as a major area for improvement during his media session at the Combine.
“We’ve always taken pride in our defensive front and our ability to pressure opponents,” Lynch noted. “While there were games where we applied pressure, we need to finish those plays and bring the quarterback down. That's something we plan to tackle head-on.”
The urgency is understandable. The 49ers found themselves at the bottom of the league in sack rate last season, a situation exacerbated by Nick Bosa's absence due to injury.
No player managed more than four sacks, highlighting a clear need for bolstering the pass rush. Additionally, the run defense ranked 20th in yards per carry, indicating room for improvement there as well.
Last year's draft saw the 49ers invest heavily in their defensive line with picks like Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins, and C.J. West.
Unfortunately, Williams's promising season was cut short by a torn ACL. Collins and West are expected to contribute at defensive tackle, with Williams offering versatility as an inside rusher.
Yet, adding a seasoned defensive tackle and prioritizing the pass rush alongside Bosa remains crucial.
With Raheem Morris stepping in as the new defensive coordinator, there's anticipation around potential changes to enhance pressure schemes. Morris's track record with the Atlanta Falcons, who ranked fourth in sack rate last year, and rookie standout James Pearce Jr.'s double-digit sack performance, bring hope for a reinvigorated 49ers defense.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on how the 49ers tackle these challenges and position themselves for another successful campaign.