Posted on Jan 18

49ers reflect on playoff loss, McCaffrey, Purdy optimistic about future success

Posted Jan 18, 2026

The San Francisco 49ers face a pivotal offseason after suffering a crushing playoff defeat to the Seattle Seahawks, marking a crucial moment for the team's future trajectory.

Why it matters: The 49ers' 41-6 loss to the Seahawks not only represents their second-largest playoff defeat in franchise history but also highlights the challenges they must address as they seek to build on a successful regular season.

This was the most lopsided playoff loss under head coach Kyle Shanahan, who expressed pride in his team's accomplishments despite the setback.
With 12 regular-season victories and a win over the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round, the 49ers have shown promise; however, they must now confront significant roster needs.

What’s new: In the wake of their playoff exit, key players like Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey have voiced optimism about the team’s potential moving forward.

Purdy believes that the 49ers are capable of contending for a Super Bowl title next season, stating, “I 100 percent believe the 49ers can win a Super Bowl as soon as next season.”
McCaffrey reflected on the emotional journey of the season and affirmed his pride in being part of the team, highlighting a strong team ethos.

Yes, but: The 49ers must navigate an uncertain offseason with pressing roster issues that include strengthening their pass rush, offensive line, receiver corps, and safety positions.

Key injuries, such as those sustained by defensive end Nick Bosa, linebacker Fred Warner, and tight end George Kittle, further complicate their ability to maintain momentum heading into the next season.
The future of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is also in limbo, as the team voided his future guarantees and placed him on the reserve/left team list.

What to watch: The upcoming offseason will be critical for the 49ers, given the interest surrounding their coaching staff and ongoing discussions about player contracts.

Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh is reportedly set for head coaching interviews, while offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak has received requests for interviews from other teams.
Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in both coordinators, noting their coaching prowess and suggesting their eventual transition to head coaching roles.

The bottom line: The 49ers must capitalize on the young talent that emerged throughout the season while addressing their roster gaps if they hope to transform last season's disappointment into a championship opportunity.

As veteran left tackle Trent Williams noted, the contributions made by younger players signal a bright future, underscoring the importance of developing this talent alongside strategic offseason decisions.

49ers reflect on playoff loss, McCaffrey, Purdy optimistic about future success

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 18, 2026

The San Francisco 49ers face a pivotal offseason after suffering a crushing playoff defeat to the Seattle Seahawks, marking a crucial moment for the team's future trajectory.

This was the most lopsided playoff loss under head coach Kyle Shanahan, who expressed pride in his team's accomplishments despite the setback.

With 12 regular-season victories and a win over the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round, the 49ers have shown promise; however, they must now confront significant roster needs.

What’s new: In the wake of their playoff exit, key players like Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey have voiced optimism about the team’s potential moving forward.

Purdy believes that the 49ers are capable of contending for a Super Bowl title next season, stating, “I 100 percent believe the 49ers can win a Super Bowl as soon as next season.”

McCaffrey reflected on the emotional journey of the season and affirmed his pride in being part of the team, highlighting a strong team ethos.

Yes, but: The 49ers must navigate an uncertain offseason with pressing roster issues that include strengthening their pass rush, offensive line, receiver corps, and safety positions.

Key injuries, such as those sustained by defensive end Nick Bosa, linebacker Fred Warner, and tight end George Kittle, further complicate their ability to maintain momentum heading into the next season.

The future of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is also in limbo, as the team voided his future guarantees and placed him on the reserve/left team list.

What to watch: The upcoming offseason will be critical for the 49ers, given the interest surrounding their coaching staff and ongoing discussions about player contracts.

Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh is reportedly set for head coaching interviews, while offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak has received requests for interviews from other teams.

Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in both coordinators, noting their coaching prowess and suggesting their eventual transition to head coaching roles.

As veteran left tackle Trent Williams noted, the contributions made by younger players signal a bright future, underscoring the importance of developing this talent alongside strategic offseason decisions.