2024 was a tough season for the 49ers. Out of 15 games, they lost 9 till week 16. But they are now shaking things up, and the timing couldn’t be more intriguing. A playoff-eliminated team is still making waves, adding new faces while preparing for a brighter future. And there’s some good news about $120 million star Brandon Aiyuk as well.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed a flurry of roster changes, including the addition of cornerback Tre Avery. Avery, who claimed off waivers from Tennessee, joins a defense in need of reinforcements as Charvarius Ward steps away for personal reasons. Though unlikely to feature against Detroit, Avery might debut against Arizona. But what does this mean for San Francisco’s defense?

The 49ers’ defensive backfield took a hit with Ward sidelined and likely done for the season. Enter Avery, a young talent with 38 career games but limited defensive contributions in 2024. San Francisco aims to evaluate him before he hits free agency, giving him a crucial audition in the season finale. However, it’s not just Avery.

Another key move involves undrafted rookie center Drake Nugent. Elevated from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, Nugent is now set to make his NFL debut amidst O-Line injuries. A former standout at Stanford and Michigan, Nugent represents a youth infusion for the injury-plagued front. And there’s more.

Linebacker Tatum Bethune returns from injured reserve, while guard Aaron Banks’s season ends due to an MCL injury. These adjustments underscore San Francisco’s focus on finishing strong while preparing younger players for 2025.

The 49ers face the Lions on Monday, but the final game against Arizona might offer more clarity on their offseason plans. Now let’s shift the focus to another key component in the team’s 2025 plans. The name that has fans buzzing: Brandon Aiyuk.

Brandon Aiyuk’s recovery sparks optimism

Alongside the roster moves grabbing headlines, Aiyuk’s recovery update has also stolen the spotlight for fans looking toward 2025. The star wide receiver is recovering from ACL and MCL tears sustained after taking a low hit against the Chiefs earlier this season. And the receiver is now showing promising signs of progress.

Shanahan provided a reassuring update on Aiyuk, who’s rehabbing from ACL and MCL tears. “He’s plugging along with that,” Shanahan noted, emphasizing Aiyuk’s diligent work after his initial rehab in Los Angeles. “He went to L.A. for surgery, did the rehab there for a while, but he’s been back here like the last month or so going through his process, working hard. It’s a long process, but he’s on track,” Shanahan said. Now back with the team, the wideout’s progress offers hope for a strong return next season.

Aiyuk’s absence has been felt. The 49ers had made a significant investment in the young gun. Signed to a four-year, $120 million extension in August, his injury-shortened season was disappointing. Before his setback, Aiyuk recorded only 25 receptions for 374 yards and no touchdowns.

Despite the struggles, Shanahan stressed patience, ensuring Aiyuk’s long-term health isn’t jeopardized. This approach reflects a team looking beyond immediate challenges to reclaim its star receiver’s game-changing abilities. With a youth movement in defense and Aiyuk’s steady progress, the 49ers’ future looks brighter than their current standings suggest.