49ers Seek Answers After Divisional Rival Dominates Super Bowl

Fans question how 49ers can catch up to Seahawks and Rams after disappointing end to 2025 season.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers went 12-5 last season and made the playoffs, but their divisional rivals the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams have surpassed them in recent drafts, leading to questions from fans about how the 49ers can catch up. The 49ers are looking to bounce back after the Seahawks dominated them twice late in the season and then won the Super Bowl at Levi's Stadium.

Why it matters

The 49ers' struggles against their NFC West rivals have left their fanbase frustrated, as the team appears to have fallen behind in the division. With the Seahawks and Rams both making key draft picks that have paid immediate dividends, the 49ers are facing pressure to improve their own draft strategy and player development to keep pace in a highly competitive division.

The details

The 49ers have made 19 picks in the past two drafts, with 18 of those players still on the team, but they have struggled to find instant-impact stars like the Seahawks and Rams have in recent years. The team's coaching staff has been praised, but questions remain about whether they have properly assessed the potential of their recent draft picks.

  • In January 2026, the Seahawks defeated the 49ers twice.
  • In February 2026, the Seahawks won Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium after beating the Rams in the NFC Championship Game.

The players

Brock Purdy

The 49ers' starting quarterback, who was one of the few players from the team's past six drafts to earn All-Pro or Pro Bowl recognition.

Nick Bosa

The 49ers' star defensive end, who the team is looking to provide more help for in order to improve their pass rush.

Kyle Shanahan

The 49ers' head coach, who has been praised for his coaching staff and is a three-time Coach of the Year finalist.

John Lynch

The 49ers' general manager, who is responsible for the team's recent draft strategy.

Grey Zabel

A 2025 draft pick by the Seahawks who had an immediate impact as a rookie.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The 49ers will look to have a strong 2026 draft to help them catch up to the Seahawks and Rams in the NFC West.

The takeaway

The 49ers' struggles against their divisional rivals have left their fanbase frustrated, raising questions about the team's draft strategy and player development. To close the gap, the 49ers will need to find more instant-impact stars in the draft and continue to develop their young talent.