ESPN: Don't be surprised if 49ers return to the Super Bowl

ESPN reporter Dan Graziano made bold predictions for all 32 NFL teams heading into the 2025 season, and for the San Francisco 49ers, he says fans shouldn't be shocked if the team finds itself back in the Super Bowl at the end.

That prediction is notable given the significant roster turnover the 49ers experienced this offseason, with depth at several key positions still a concern.

"We're excited about the team in general," general manager John Lynch said on Wednesday. "Did a lot of talent leave the team [this] year? Absolutely, but that's the league and we made the best of it, and I like where our team's at."

Graziano appears to share that confidence. He noted that he's been hearing positive reports coming out of Santa Clara.

"I don't understand why so many people are sleeping on the 49ers, who were in the Super Bowl two seasons ago and saw their 2024 season completely disintegrate because of injuries," Graziano wrote. "They lost some guys this offseason, sure, but they still have Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams, George Kittle, Nick Bosa, Fred Warner ... I could go on, but you get the idea. A lot of talent."

The 49ers are hoping their top-tier players can carry the team in 2025 after a disastrous 6-11 campaign last season. Of course, health will be a key factor to ensure their star playmakers stay on the field and that the team's depth isn't tested.

"At this stage of their careers, McCaffrey and Williams in particular have to be considered injury risks, but if they stay healthy, there's no reason this can't be an elite offense for quarterback Brock Purdy," Graziano added. "Ricky Pearsall, the team's 2024 first-round pick who was recovering from a gunshot wound at the start of last season, appears poised to take on a leading role while Jauan Jennings figures out his calf/contract situation and Brandon Aiyuk works his way back from a knee injury."

The 49ers also benefit from what is projected to be the NFL's easiest schedule, thanks to their last-place finish in the NFC West last season—a factor that will aid in their path back to the postseason.

"This team has a good chance to bounce all the way back to being one of the best -- if not the best -- in the NFC, especially against a schedule that includes just four games against teams that made last season's playoffs," Graziano concluded.