5 bold predictions for the 49ers, the NFC West in 2019

No. 1: But the 49ers Make the Playoffs, Too

Let’s be honest here. San Francisco going 8-8 — after a combined 10-22 record the last two seasons — would be a massive step in the right direction.

But a .500 record would be a mere prediction, perhaps an expectation. Those aren’t bold.

Instead, the bold prediction would have the Niners making the playoffs in 2019. If Seattle winds up winning the NFC West, the 49ers would have to get in as a Wild Card, of course. That part is obvious.

San Francisco 49ers

So is the possibility and opportunity, however.

True, the Niners have a tough schedule this season. They travel to the Eastern Time Zone four times this year, and head coach Kyle Shanahan has yet to establish his team as a road winner. The early Week 4 bye doesn’t help matters much either.

Yet San Francisco is getting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo back from his 2018 ACL tear. It’s not lost on followers the five-game win streak he helped engineer to close out 2017, which included wins over three playoff teams and with a far less-impressive supporting cast.

Heading into 2019, that offensive cast is much better. Newly acquired running back Tevin Coleman, a Shanahan favorite from his days with the Atlanta Falcons, should be a difference maker. Same with rookie wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who could be a breakout receiver in 2019, according to legendary wide receiver Reggie Wayne.

There are the previously mentioned defensive upgrades. And that tight end, George Kittle, is pretty good, too. Keep in mind, the majority of his record-setting 1,377 receiving yards last year came from quarterbacks not named Garoppolo.

The 49ers may be a little far off from hoisting a Lombardi Trophy. But in this prediction, they’re at least in the picture and playoff hunt.

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