News Summary
The San Francisco 49ers are set for the upcoming NFL season, focusing on second-year players poised to become breakout stars. Jacob Cowing, D’Mon Green, and AJ Guerendo are among the notable talents expected to make significant impacts. With roster changes and injuries, young players will prove vital for the 49ers as they ready for training camp and the season ahead.
San Francisco is gearing up for the 2025 NFL season, which kicks off in just over a month, with several players on the San Francisco 49ers roster expected to emerge as breakout stars. As the team prepares for the upcoming campaign, a mix of second-year talents and players stepping into new roles could play a crucial part in the 49ers’ success.
Among the standout candidates for breakout performances is Jacob Cowing, a second-year wide receiver. After spending much of 2024 as a return specialist, he caught just four passes for 80 yards during his rookie season. However, with significant offseason training alongside quarterback Brock Purdy, Cowing is anticipated to take on a larger offensive role in 2025. His impressive speed, clocked at 4.38 seconds for the 40-yard dash, positions him well to exploit openings in the team’s receiving game, particularly as fellow receiver Brandon Aiyuk rehabs from an ACL injury and Demarcus Robinson faces a potentially looming three-game suspension.
Another formidable second-year player, D’Mon Green, is set to become a starting cornerback after a notable rookie season. Having played in 18 games last year, Green recorded 61 tackles, 13 pass breakups, and one interception. Green’s experience and growth are projected to enhance his performance with increased playing time, especially following the departure of Charvarius Ward to the Colts.
AJ Guerendo, a speedy running back who clocked a time of 4.33 seconds in the 40-yard dash, is also expected to make a name for himself this season. With the recent trade of running back Jordan Mason, Guerendo will have more opportunities to showcase his dual-threat abilities as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield.
In the receiving corps, Ricky Pearsall, another second-year receiver and first-round draft pick, faced injuries in 2024, yet managed to record 31 receptions for 400 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games. Currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, Pearsall’s recovery and performance in training camp could make him a vital target for Purdy, provided he remains healthy.
The defensive line is also seeing promising developments with Asmar Huff, who struggled with injuries last season but returns to the 49ers after a remarkable breakout season in 2023 that included 10 sacks. Huff’s reunion with former coach Robert Saleh could result in a synergy that strengthens the defensive unit, especially alongside star pass rusher Nick Bosa.
The 49ers made a significant roster change by trading wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders, which highlights the team’s focus on rejuvenating their receiving corps. Additionally, the contract situation surrounding Jauan Jennings remains uncertain, amplifying the need for young talents to step up and fill potential voids in the lineup.
The organization entered the offseason aiming to cultivate emerging talents, particularly with reshuffles in the wide receiver positions. As training camp approaches, veteran players are set to report on July 22, with the first practice scheduled for July 23. All eyes will be on these players as they strive to make their mark ahead of what promises to be an engaging 2025 NFL season for the San Francisco 49ers.
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- NBC Sports Bay Area
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- 49ers Webzone
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Francisco 49ers
- Niners Wire
- Google News: 49ers 2025 season
