The 49ers enter the 2024 season post-Deebo Samuel, locking in QB Brock Purdy. But with Brandon Aiyuk on the PUP list, can they overcome key injuries?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The San Francisco 49ers' offseason has been a whirlwind of calculated risks and massive commitments, creating a fascinating picture as training camp approaches. The blockbuster trade of Deebo Samuel signaled a major philosophical shift, but the franchise immediately anchored its future with a staggering five-year, $265 million contract for quarterback Brock Purdy. Now, as the dust settles, the team faces its first major hurdles: key starters in Brandon Aiyuk and Malik Mustapha are expected to begin camp on the PUP list, testing the team's revamped depth from day one.
A five-year, $265 million contract for quarterback Brock Purdy.
The departure of Deebo Samuel to Washington marked the end of an era, but for GM John Lynch, it was a necessary step in getting 'younger and cheaper.' While the team lost more starters than any other in the league, a sense of 'drama-free' optimism pervades, bolstered by long-term extensions for the core of Purdy, Fred Warner, and George Kittle. The spotlight now shifts to second-year receiver Ricky Pearsall, who is expected to fill the void. Pearsall recently spoke on the motivating power of Purdy's new deal, calling the quarterback's journey 'super inspiring' and signaling a locker room ready to rally around its newly-paid leader.
The 49ers' Super Bowl aspirations hinge on their health, and two key players are in a race against the clock. GM John Lynch confirmed that both receiver Brandon Aiyuk (ACL/MCL) and safety Malik Mustapha (ACL) are likely to start training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. While Lynch noted that Aiyuk received positive feedback from renowned surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache, his availability for the season opener remains in doubt. Mustapha is also questionable for Week 1 but is reportedly making strong progress. Their absence will test the team's depth early and place more pressure on the offense's new-look receiving corps.
If the 49ers can navigate their injury concerns, the NFL has certainly rolled out the red carpet for them. The 2025 schedule features a league-easiest opponent win percentage of .415, giving the Niners a significant advantage on paper. The league is also banking on their star power, scheduling them for five prime-time games. Perhaps the biggest motivation of all is the calendar's final destination: Super Bowl LX will be held at Levi's Stadium. The path to a championship literally ends at home, adding an immense layer of pressure and excitement to the upcoming season.
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a defining one. The 49ers are younger, built differently, and betting big on their franchise quarterback. While the road to recovery for Aiyuk and Mustapha will be the dominant story of training camp, the path forward has been laid out. With a favorable schedule and the ultimate prize waiting at their home stadium, the mission is clear. The post-Deebo era has begun, and the expectation remains the same: bring home a sixth Lombardi Trophy.
