49ers power rankings: Best 10 players with 4 weeks remaining in 2021

2 of 6

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports /

49ers power rankings: Player Nos. 10-6

Here’s a revelation for you: Good teams are comprised of good players, and those good teams tend to win when their good players are playing like good players.

The 49ers were underachieving in this matter earlier this season, but that’s no longer been the case as of late. More importantly, the Niners have received some quality contributions from players you wouldn’t necessarily expect to crack this kind of NFL power rankings list.

42. . . Previous: . Laken Tomlinson. 10. player

He’s certainly flown under the radar this season, but left guard Laken Tomlinson has been downright impressive, not having yet allowed a sack, according to Pro Football Focus.

A free agent in 2022, San Francisco has a tough decision whether or not it wants to open up the pocketbooks to re-sign the veteran who has yet to miss a start with the team since early in 2017.

Elijah Mitchell. 9. player. 42. . . Previous:

Injuries have kept rookie running back Elijah Mitchell from truly making a dent this season, which will keep him out of Pro Bowl consideration.

Still, setting a franchise record for a rookie with four 100-yard rushing games is impressive, and the 49ers offense is far more dynamic with him in the fray than without.

8. player. 42. . . Previous: . Azeez Al-Shaair

The Niners have been without No. 2 linebacker Dre Greenlaw for much of the year, but Azeez Al-Shaair has more than made up for it with some excellent play.

The undrafted free agent from 2019 has turned into one of the NFL’s best unsung players this season, and he should be starting even after Greenlaw returns fully healthy.

. . Previous: . Jimmy Garoppolo. 7. player. 42

When quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo plays well, San Francisco almost always wins. When he doesn’t, his team usually loses.

Case in point, the 49ers are a perfect 6-0 this season when Garoppolo doesn’t toss an interception.

Quite the contrast to the 1-5 record the team has when Jimmy G tosses a pick.

42. . . Previous: . Fred Warner. 6. player

He might be having a bit of a down season, especially in comparison to his All-Pro campaign from a year ago.

Still, linebacker Fred Warner is such a vital part of the Niners defense and rarely makes the kind of mistakes lesser linebackers can frequently make. Even if he’s not making the same types of splash plays seen in 2020, Warner still provides that competitive presence San Francisco’s defense so desperately needs.