2024 didn't go according to plan for the San Francisco 49ers.
Despite a stacked roster with plenty of All-Pro talent, the Niners found themselves eliminated from playoff contention and flopped to a last-place finish within the NFC West and a 6-11 regular-season record.
Far from the "nothing less than a Super Bowl" aspirations the team had entering the year.
That said, there are plenty of reasons why head coach Kyle Shanahan's squad bounces back much stronger in 2025.
No. 1: 49ers will get plenty of injured star power back
Up first, the return of a fully healthy All-Pro running back, Christian McCaffrey, should provide a significant boost.
After starting the season on injured reserve due to bilateral tendinitis in both legs, McCaffrey returned for a Week 10 matchup versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his return was short-lived as he only lasted three more games until finally being shut down for good with a knee injury.
Of course, McCaffrey wasn't the only offensive casualty San Francisco had to endure.
The 49ers have been without their top wide receiver, Brandon Aiyuk, who suffered a torn MCL and ACL in Week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Sure, things began with a tumultuous offseason between him and the Niners when they couldn't come to terms on an extension earlier in the process. As a result of the "San Francisco stand-off," Aiyuk started the season extremely lethargic and never found his 2024 All-Pro form.
Perhaps extended time away will benefit him and the organization as they look to turn the page and refocus for another Lombardi run.
No. 2: Brock Purdy's maturation
The second reason the Niners bounce back stronger is because of a wiser, more experienced quarterback in Brock Purdy.
His continued evolution as an NFL signal-caller will be crucial to San Francisco's success. Many will look at this season as a failure for Purdy since he couldn't lead his team to a playoff berth.
However, with more experience under his belt, Purdy has a great opportunity to elevate his game to new heights in 2025. He's already shown the ability to create big plays both on the ground and through the air while navigating significant risks in the process.
Getting McCaffrey back into the mix should alleviate pressure off Mr. Relevant, too, which will aid his growth and maturity that'll transform him into a formidable force for years to come.
No. 3: 49ers can 'reinvent themselves'
The last reason, a strong cohesive unit paired with a solid coaching staff is the essential ingredient needed for success.
Once the season officially ends, head coach Kyle Shanahan will be entering his ninth season at the helm. He, along with the rest of his coaching staff, have their work cut out for them this year. A mistake-filled unit that consistently underperformed will be tasked with returning to dominance.
For that to happen, the 49ers must reinvent themselves on both sides of the ball, which will determine their imminent success.