The NFL offseason kicks off on Monday, bringing with it a lot of excitement.
The NFL Combine is set for late February, where players often see their draft stock skyrocket thanks to impressive athletic performances. The draft itself will take place from April 23rd to April 25th, with Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza likely being the top pick for new Raiders coach Clint Kubiak.
In a surprising move, former Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur has been appointed as the head coach of the Cardinals, contributing to a record-tying total of 10 new head coaches entering the 2026 season.
Perhaps the most unexpected development was John Harbaugh’s shift from the Ravens to Jackson Dart, Cam Scatterbo, and the Giants, while Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter stepped in to take Harbaugh’s place in Baltimore. Meanwhile, Mike Tomlin decided to step down in Pittsburgh, prompting the Steelers to quickly bring in Mike McCarthy.
Following the departure of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to the Titans, the 49ers now have a head coaching vacancy to fill.
There are some pressing questions the 49ers must tackle.
What’s next for Brandon Aiyuk?
It seems the relationship between Brandon Aiyuk and the 49ers is heading toward a messy split. After recovering from a torn ACL in 2024, Aiyuk didn’t play in 2025, and there are reports of him skipping out on team activities. To make matters worse, he shared a video online driving 111 mph near Levi’s Stadium last December.
It looks like Aiyuk’s time with the team may be coming to an end, marking a tumultuous chapter in his young career.
Should they find another backup quarterback?
Having a solid backup quarterback is crucial, and the 49ers learned this firsthand last year with Mac Jones stepping in remarkably well.
Jones played a vital role in maintaining the team’s momentum while primary starter Brock Purdy faced injuries. Over 11 games, he threw for 2,151 yards with 13 touchdowns, keeping a completion rate of 69.6 percent.
Several teams might be eyeing Jones as a starting option for next season, but reports indicate the 49ers have no plans to trade him. Even with Purdy on board, Jones’ performance as a backup is highly valued in today’s game.
How will Raheem Morris fill Robert Saleh’s shoes?
With Saleh moving on to coach the Titans, head coach Mike Shanahan needed to find a new defensive leader. Fortunately, they didn’t hesitate to choose Raheem Morris, a former Falcons head coach, with whom Shanahan has a history, including their time together in Atlanta from 2015 to 2016.
Morris is recognized as one of the top defensive strategists, but there’s a pressing need for stability, as he becomes the fifth defensive coordinator in five years for San Francisco.
Improving the defense is essential for the 49ers to reach their goals next season.
Are the electrical substation rumors valid?
A particularly amusing offseason rumor suggests that an electrical substation near the 49ers’ facilities might be linked to the team’s injury woes over recent seasons.
General Manager John Lynch has dealt with a team plagued by injuries, especially to key players like linebacker Fred Warner and defensive end Nick Bosa. He’s considering all possibilities, emphasizing the health of the players as the top priority. Lynch said, “We want anyone to look into this. Is there research beyond questionable equipment tests? We’ve heard these claims are false, but… our players’ health comes first.”
It’s unclear how this will unfold, but at least the 49ers are exploring all angles.
And with the 27th pick in the NFL draft, the 49ers…
It seems crucial for San Francisco to target a wide receiver early in the draft.
With Aiyuk’s anticipated departure, depth at that position will certainly take a hit. Key players like Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne are both headed into free agency, while rookie Ricky Pearsall has shown potential but been held back by inconsistency and injuries.
Tight end George Kittle is also on the mend from a torn Achilles tendon, so finding more options for Purdy through the draft is an essential step forward.
