49ers Warned to Avoid These 10 Offseason Pitfalls

From not trading for Maxx Crosby to not overpaying for Deebo Samuel, the 49ers have a lot to consider this offseason.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers are coming off a 12-5 season and a wild-card playoff win, but the offseason brings plenty of challenges. Veteran journalist Jerry McDonald provides a friendly list of 10 things the 49ers should avoid as they look to build their 2026 roster, from not trading for Raiders star Maxx Crosby to not obsessing over the rival Seattle Seahawks.

Why it matters

The 49ers are in a critical offseason as they look to build on their recent success and contend for a Super Bowl. Avoiding missteps in free agency, the draft, and roster management will be key to their continued competitiveness in the NFC West.

The details

McDonald's list covers a range of potential pitfalls, from not overpaying for wide receiver Tyreek Hill due to his injury history, to not trading away backup quarterback Mac Jones, to not drafting another "hybrid" defensive lineman with their first pick. The article also cautions the 49ers against using the franchise tag, overpaying for wide receiver Jauan Jennings, and obsessing too much over the rival Seahawks.

  • The 2026 NFL offseason is officially underway, with key dates like the franchise tag deadline, NFL Scouting Combine, free agency, and the NFL Draft all taking place between now and the end of April.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who has been productive but has a high snap count that could lead to injury concerns.

Tyreek Hill

A wide receiver who recently signed with the Miami Dolphins but is recovering from an ACL tear and knee dislocation.

Mac Jones

The 49ers' backup quarterback who stepped in and saved the team's season last fall when starter Brock Purdy went down with injuries.

Eddy Piñeiro

The 49ers' kicker who the team should be able to re-sign without too much trouble.

Jauan Jennings

A wide receiver for the 49ers who has been a "heart-and-soul" guy for the team but may get overpaid on the open market.

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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 judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This offseason will be critical for the 49ers as they look to build on their recent success and contend for a Super Bowl. Avoiding missteps in free agency, the draft, and roster management will be key to their continued competitiveness in the NFC West.