In a bittersweet conclusion to the NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers faced a tough 47-24 defeat against the Arizona Cardinals on January 5, 2025. This loss not only marked the end of their challenging season, finishing with a 6-11 record, but also secured the 11th overall pick in the much-anticipated 2025 NFL Draft. The game was a roller coaster of emotions, with standout performances on one side and disappointing injuries on the other.
Game Recap
Right from the start, it was clear the Cardinals had the upper hand. Quarterback Kyler Murray lit up the field, throwing for 242 yards and an impressive four touchdowns. His dynamic playmaking ability kept the 49ers on their toes throughout the match.
Rookie sensation Marvin Harrison Jr. made waves as he caught a key 12-yard touchdown pass, which not only sealed the victory for Arizona but also allowed him to tie the franchise record with eight touchdown catches in his debut season. Meanwhile, the 49ers found themselves unable to capitalize on their chances, struggling to maintain possession and often falling victim to costly turnovers.
Injuries Take Their Toll
The game was marred by injuries to key players for the 49ers, including quarterback Brock Purdy, who was already sidelined from previous games. Joshua Dobbs had to step in and he did manage to throw for 326 yards, but wasn’t able to overcome the mistakes that led the team to another loss. Additionally, multiple injuries plagued their roster during this intense matchup, making their road to recovery even more challenging.
Ejections Spark Controversy
Adding to the drama, the game featured a brawl that led to the ejection of both 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings and Cardinals cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting. This confrontation added a layer of frustration for the 49ers, who were already dealing with a multitude of setbacks.
Looking to the Future
While the Cardinals celebrated their win, finishing their season with an 8-9 record, the 49ers turned their attention toward the future and their high-stakes opportunity at the upcoming draft. With the 11th overall pick secured, they have the chance to revamp their roster and address weaknesses exposed throughout the season. They hope to make more impactful choices than the last time they held the 11th pick back in 2010, which saw them draft lineman Anthony Davis.
George Kittle and Contract Talks
As the season has wrapped up, the conversation about George Kittle’s future with the team has heated up. Kittle finished the season with solid stats, including 78 receptions and over a thousand yards, earning him another Pro Bowl selection. However, his current contract will expire after the upcoming 2024 season, generating discussions about a possible extension. Kittle has expressed his desire to continue his journey with the 49ers and retire with the team he loves.
2025 NFL Draft Position Established
The conclusion of this season has placed the 49ers in a compelling position for the upcoming draft. Coaches Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch have guided the team through some recent ups and downs, making five top-20 picks in their tenure, but they will be aiming to bolster the team significantly next year. The draft will take place later this spring, and all eyes will be on how the 49ers use their valuable pick to improve their chances for the next season.
As the 49ers lick their wounds from this disappointing season, fans are hopeful that with a new draft pick and the right decisions, next year can bring a fresh start and a chance for success on the field.
