Where does your squad stand ahead of the 2024 NFL season? Adam Rank sets the table by providing a State of the Franchise look at all 32 teams, zeroing in on the new faces to know, one significant fantasy spin and the stakes at play in the campaign to come.
Members of the 49ers organization, 49ers fans around the world and those who have started to grow tired of Patrick Mahomes before it’s become cool …
The 49ers are still one of the best teams in the NFC, maybe even all of the NFL, held back by just one thing, or, to the point, one player: Mahomes, who improved to 2-0 against them in Super Bowls at the conclusion of the 2023 season. Don’t listen to anyone who suggests the window of opportunity is closing for this group, which I believe is poised to make another run this season.
With three of the six players who logged at least three sacks for them in 2023 (Arik Armstead, Clelin Ferrell and Javon Hargrave) departing this offseason, the 49ers needed some help with the pass rush. Though the 31-year-old Floyd technically qualifies as a “new face to know,” he’s actually something of a familiar face, having spent three seasons (2020-22) in the NFC West with the Rams, racking up 29 sacks in that period (two of which came in his most recent game against the Niners, in Week 8 of 2022). Last season with Buffalo, Floyd reached double digits in sacks (10.5) for the second time in his career.
The Niners have yet to give Brandon Aiyuk the extension he’s been seeking. Pearsall provides a little bit of insurance for the passing attack in case the situation with Aiyuk gets sticky. Even if Aiyuk settles in for the season (see my fantasy hot take below to learn what I think will happen) and Pearsall ends up sharing targets with him and Deebo Samuel, there’s reason to think the rookie will have an impact. Pearsall racked up 1,027 scrimmage yards (15.1 yards per touch) for the Florida Gators last season.
