Jimmy Garoppolo’s addition transformed the San Francisco 49ers into a playoff contender, but the Niners’ 2018 fate also rests on the shoulders of a number of additional key players. If the 49ers expect a playoff run this season, they will need significant contributions from these 25 players.
The signing of quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo — who raised all tides in 2017 — was an important step in the San Francisco 49ers’ hopeful return to dominance, but the team also needed to provide their franchise QB with a talented supporting cast for a potential playoff run.
Over the past two offseasons, 49ers general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan strived to create the nucleus of a high-caliber team, with the ability to compete in a changing NFC West division.
In order for the San Francisco 49ers to become one of the NFL’s top teams this season, they will need the following players to play at a high level.
While the following members of the team aren’t necessarily the best players on the 49ers’ roster — although many of them are — these are the 49ers’ 25 most important players for the 2018 season.