San Francisco 49ers Set for 2025 Resurgence: Easiest Schedule, New Defense, and Championship Aspirations

A Fresh Start for the 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers are entering their 76th NFL season, looking to improve upon their disappointing 6-11 record from last year and return to the playoffs after a one-year absence.

Favorable Schedule Ahead

The team’s 2025 opponents combined for a 120-169 record last season, resulting in a .415 winning percentage—the lowest in the NFL, giving the 49ers the easiest strength of schedule heading into the new season.

The 49ers will begin and end their regular season against the division-rival Seahawks, starting on the road in Week 1 and concluding at Levi’s Stadium in Week 18. Their first home game is scheduled for Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals, and they will feature in five prime-time matchups this year. The team’s bye week is scheduled for Week 14.

Defensive Overhaul and Key Changes

A significant change comes with Robert Saleh’s return as defensive coordinator after his stint with the New York Jets. Under his previous tenure, the 49ers were fifth in yards allowed and 17th in points in 2020. The team’s defense slipped to eighth in yards but fell to 29th in points given up in 2024.

The defense has undergone substantial changes with several departures, including Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, and Charvarius Ward. However, the team maintains a strong foundation with dominant players Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.

Youth Movement and Future Outlook

After having the oldest team in the NFL last season, General Manager John Lynch’s goal was to transform the roster with an injection of youth. The team now has 10 rookies on their 53-man roster, with six rookies on defense potentially playing significant roles starting from Week 1.

Despite the youth movement, the 49ers maintain enough top talent to make another championship run. While the Philadelphia Eagles, as reigning Super Bowl champions, are the clear favorites in the NFC, the 49ers are considered among the serious contenders.