What Will It Take for the 49ers to Get Back to the Playoffs in 2025?

The San Francisco 49ers are eyeing another deep postseason run — but what needs to happen for that to become a reality? With GM John Lynch pulling the strings, the team has already made strides to strengthen both the starting lineup and the depth chart, and the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft could be the final piece in reloading for another playoff push.

Armed with 11 picks, the 49ers are well-positioned to infuse their roster with fresh talent. But all eyes are on their first-round selection at No. 11, a slot that could define their offseason. And if recent reports are to be believed, they may not stay there for long.

According to Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated, San Francisco has been exploring options to trade up into the top six picks. While the rumor might sound speculative, Cohn suggests it has legs. “With the 11th pick, the 49ers aren't quite in range to take a true blue-chip player,” Cohn wrote. “Instead, they'll take an excellent prospect with flaws — an edge rusher with low sack numbers, a run-deficient defensive tackle, a slow cornerback, an injured linebacker, or a tweener offensive lineman.”

That’s not to say quality won’t be available at No. 11 — but it might not be the elite-level, instant-impact player the 49ers are hoping for.

Trade-Up Targets to Watch

If the 49ers are able to swing a deal and crack the top six, there are some fascinating names that could be on their radar:

• Ashton Jeanty – A dynamic back who could be a long-term replacement for Christian McCaffrey.

• Armand Membou – A dominant offensive tackle with the potential to eventually take over for Trent Williams.

• Abdul Carter – A rangy, explosive linebacker who could slot into the void left by Leonard Floyd.

• Travis Hunter – One of the most electric two-way players in recent college football history, possibly filling roles currently occupied by Charvarius Ward and Deebo Samuel.

Each of these prospects offers immediate upside and long-term potential — the kind of additions that could keep the 49ers in Super Bowl conversations.

But Will a Deal Actually Happen?

Of course, trading up requires a partner, and it’s not easy convincing a team to move out of a top-six pick unless the offer is too good to pass up. Still, the 49ers have the ammo — and possibly the motivation — to make a bold move.

With the draft fast approaching on April 24, the clock is ticking. Will Lynch and the 49ers stand pat and grab a high-upside contributor at No. 11? Or will they push their chips in for one of the draft’s elite?

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