Why the 49ers ranked No. 9 in ESPN's 'Future Power Rankings'

ESPN's panel of NFL analysts has ranked every team in its annual "Future Power Rankings" feature, and the San Francisco 49ers landed at No. 9. This ranking isn't just about the team's outlook for the 2025 season—it projects success over the next three years, factoring in the quarterback situation, roster strength, coaching staff, and front office stability.

Analysts Ben Solak, Louis Riddick, Aaron Schatz, and Seth Walder graded each category, with the 49ers earning an 83.5 overall score—a solid "B" grade.

49ers' category rankings:

• Quarterback situation: 82.3 (13th in NFL)
• Overall roster (excluding QB): 79.8 (11th)
• Coaching: 92.8 (2nd)
• Front office: 79.3 (14th)

The standout? San Francisco's coaching staff, which analysts see as a major strength capable of guiding the team through a significant roster overhaul this offseason.

"Just how good they are down the stretch will come down to these past two draft classes, from which many players have been thrust into starting roles," Solak wrote.

While the 49ers' wide receiver depth raised some concerns, Riddick pointed to the defensive line as a bigger question mark—one of the position groups most affected by the offseason changes.

"Yes, they still have Nick Bosa, but he is surrounded by three rookie linemen," Riddick noted. "Coordinator Robert Saleh returns in 2025 to get these new/young prospects up to speed quickly and improve a defense that finished 29th in points allowed (25.6) in 2024."

Looking further ahead, Walder highlighted the need to find a long-term successor for veteran left tackle Trent Williams, who turned 37 this year. Walder projects the future Hall of Famer will retire after the 2026 season.

"San Francisco is the only team currently over the cap in 2027 (per OverTheCap.com), so the draft is the most likely spot to land Williams' replacement," Walder explained.

With elite coaching and a solid quarterback situation, the 49ers are well-positioned to remain competitive if their young talent develops and the front office navigates looming roster challenges.