3 second-year 49ers who could make a big jump in 2020

One can hope these second-year 49ers players break out big time in 2020.

Former San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh, and a number of other football types out there, regularly stated and felt most NFL players take their biggest steps between their rookie seasons and their second years at the pro level.

If that’s the case, the Niners should have some key storylines to watch in 2020.

San Francisco’s 2019 NFL Draft class provided plenty of thump en route to the team’s appearance in Super Bowl LIV. First-round rookie EDGE Nick Bosa earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, so he’s already arrived on the scene. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, a fifth-round pick, also ascended into the ranks of a quality starter. Second-round wide receiver Deebo Samuel, despite a slowish start to his pro career, took off in the second half and looks to be the bona fide No. 1 option at his position moving forward.

Heck, even sixth-round tackle Justin Skule showcased some value as a reserve player last year.

With the 49ers’ Super Bowl window now fully open, head coach Kyle Shanahan and Co. will look to these younger players to further establish themselves both as key members of the franchise and among the league’s best at their respective positions.

But there’s still a lot of improvement and room to grow for many of San Francisco’s 2019 rookie class.

And that leaves open the possibility for taking a massive jump in 2020.

In this breakdown, Niner Noise looks at three second-year players who could take that leap, starting off with players who weren’t able to offer much of anything last year due to injury.