Mike Garafolo disputes the notion that the San Francisco 49ers will struggle in the 2025 NFL season after finishing with a disappointing 6-11 record in 2024. Speaking on NFL Network’s The Insiders, he expressed confidence that the team has the potential to rebound quickly and could go from the bottom of the NFC West to the top.
Garafolo explained that the 49ers will benefit from a favorable schedule due to their last-place division finish but cautioned against expecting an easy path.
“It’s the NFL and nothing is easy and nothing is soft,”
he said, emphasizing the league’s competitive nature.
Health and Stability Key to 49ers’ Future Success
A major factor in the 49ers’ disappointing 2024 campaign was an extensive list of injuries, but heading into training camp, the team is in a healthier, more stable position. By securing long-term contract extensions with key players such as quarterback Brock Purdy, tight end George Kittle, and linebacker Fred Warner, San Francisco has solidified a strong leadership core for the coming seasons.
Brandon Aiyuk’s Recovery and Trade Rumors Addressed
Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers wide receiver recovering from ACL and MCL injuries sustained last season, has become the center of trade speculation. Some fans and media outlets interpreted his social media activity as a sign of dissatisfaction with the organization. However, Aiyuk has directly expressed frustration about circulating trade rumors, pointing out their irrelevance given his recovery timeline.
Reflecting on the rumors, Aiyuk posted,
“They was talking bout trading me while I was off percocets /muscle relaxers and peeing in a cup by my bed!”
He added,
“Couldn’t walk for 10 weeks ain’t nobody trading for me.”
This clarifies that he is focused on getting healthy rather than entertaining trade possibilities.
Garafolo Confirms Positive Relationship Between Aiyuk and the Team
Garafolo publicly dispelled doubts about Aiyuk’s relationship with the 49ers, stating,
“Now, I know folks are reading into Brandon Aiyuk’s comments as he makes his way back from an ACL injury.”
He continued,
“My understanding is Brandon Aiyuk is in a really good space with the team. They’ve got to get him healthy and keep him focused. If they do, that’s another add back to the mix with all this talent on the team.”
This reassurance highlights strong communication between the player and organization despite injury setbacks.
Outlook for Aiyuk’s Return During the 2025 Season
Head coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated that Aiyuk likely will not be ready when training camp opens, with expectations that the team will list him on the physically unable to perform (PUP) roster, sidelining him for at least the first four games. Despite this, the 49ers remain hopeful that Aiyuk can make his season debut later and contribute meaningfully in the latter part of the year.
Maintaining Aiyuk’s health and integrating him back into the lineup could provide the 49ers with a significant boost amid a deep roster filled with talented players. Their ability to recover from last season’s injury challenges and stabilize key positions will be critical as they aim to improve their standing in the NFC West.