49ers' Weaknesses Exposed: What Needs Fixing Before the 2024 NFL Season

The San Francisco 49ers have a strong roster, but there are a few areas that need attention before the 2024 NFL season. This article highlights the team's biggest weaknesses, including right tackle, linebacker, and backup tight end.

_{^{Photo by Vladimir Kudinov on Unsplash}}

49ers’ Biggest Weaknesses Ahead of 2024 NFL Training Camp

======================================================

As the San Francisco 49ers gear up for the 2024 NFL season, they’re looking strong on paper. With Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel leading the charge on offense, and Nick Bosa dominating on defense, the team has a solid foundation. However, there are a few areas that need attention before the season kicks off.

Right Tackle: A Cause for Concern

Colton McKivitz is slated to start at right tackle, but his performance in the Super Bowl was a concern. With a 65.3 grade from Pro Football Focus, he struggled to contain the opposing team’s pass rush. While it’s unfair to judge him based on one game, it’s an area that needs improvement. McKivitz allowed more pressures and sacks among 49ers offensive linemen in 2023, and the team will be hoping he can make adjustments to alleviate these concerns.

McKivitz’s performance in the Super Bowl was a concern

Linebacker: A Temporary Void

The linebacker situation is a temporary concern, as Dre Greenlaw recovers from his Achilles injury. Fred Warner will still be one of the top linebackers in the NFL, but the help around him has some question marks. De’Vondre Campbell will fill Greenlaw’s role until he’s fully fit, but the 49ers need one of their backups to step up in training camp.

The 49ers need to find depth at linebacker

Backup Tight End: A Long-Term Concern

While George Kittle is expected to have a 17-game season, the 49ers need to prepare for the worst-case scenario. If Kittle gets injured or if Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk leave via trade, the backup tight ends will need to step up. Logan Thomas, the newly-signed backup, has been injury-prone in recent seasons, and Cameron Latu is an unproven commodity at the NFL level.

The 49ers need to develop their tight end depth

The 49ers have a solid foundation, but these areas need attention before the season starts. With some adjustments and improvements, they can overcome these weaknesses and make a deep playoff run.