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We’ll finally get a chance to see how different the San Francisco 49ers will look in 2025. The team we see in Week 1 won’t be the same as the one we see in Week 4. The squad that takes the field in Week 4 is unlikely to resemble the team in Week 8.
But let’s focus on what’s in front
of us and discuss which players you’re looking forward to seeing play the most in Week 1.
Christian McCaffrey
By all accounts, McCaffrey looks as close to the MVP candidate he was in 2023 as one can be a year removed from an Achilles injury. McCaffrey was the heartbeat of the 49ers’ juggernaut offense during their Super Bowl run two years ago. He was an end zone magnet and a walking big play. What version of McCaffrey will we see in 2025?
Mykel Williams
I know they play different positions, but I still can’t shake how impressive Quinnen Williams looked in Year 2 under Robert Saleh. The 49ers have Bryce Huff and Nick Bosa on the edge. That means Mykel Williams gets to learn on the fly against inferior athletes along the inside. Against Seattle, Mykel will face another first-round pick from 2025. North Dakota Date or the University of Georgia, who ya got?
From his usage to his production, all eyes will be on the Niners ‘ first-round pick.
Ricky Pearsall
If training camp and the preseason are any indication, Ricky Pearsall is going to catch 150 passes for 1,800 yards and 16 touchdowns, give or take. Seriously, though, Pearsall couldn’t have had a better August. His timing was spot on as a route runner, and he had veteran savvy awareness when the ball wasn’t in his hands.
San Francisco’s wide receiver room heading into Week 1 leaves plenty to be desired, which makes you think Pearsall will be featured early and often against the Seahawks.
Robert Saleh
We believe Robert Saleh is the biggest advantage for the 49ers against the Seahawks. Obviously, Saleh isn’t a player. Still, during the preseason, Saleh showed exotic looks on third downs. He was blitzing defensive backs from all over the place. Edge rushers were crashing inside. Safeties were on the line of scrimmage.
Sam Darnold’s head will be spinning trying to digest what Saleh throws at him.
Who are you looking forward to seeing the most? Is it somebody who we did not list above? Let us know below in the comments.
