The San Francisco 49ers, once a powerhouse filled with Pro Bowl talent, are seeing their roster’s shine fade. This year, only four players earned Pro Bowl honors—George Kittle, Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, and Kyle Juszczyk—with four others named as alternates: Deommodore Lenoir, Brock Purdy, Leonard Floyd, and Trent Williams. For a franchise used to overflowing Pro Bowl rosters, this stark drop-off underscores a challenging season.
A Far Cry from Last Year’s Dominance
In 2023, the 49ers boasted a jaw-dropping 21 Pro Bowl selections, including starters and alternates—a testament to their depth and star power. However, that team fell short of a Super Bowl title, a missed opportunity for what may have been the most talented team in NFL history not to win it all. Fast forward to 2024, and the narrative has shifted dramatically. At 6-10, the 49ers are no longer the dominant force they once were.
This Year’s Pro Bowlers: Who Deserves It?
George Kittle
Unquestionably, Kittle remains the best tight end in football. His ability to dominate as both a pass-catcher and blocker makes him a cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense. His Pro Bowl selection is a no-brainer.
Nick Bosa and Fred Warner
While still among the league’s elite, Bosa and Warner likely earned their Pro Bowl nods more on reputation than standout performances this season. Both remain very good players but weren’t the dominant forces fans have come to expect.
Kyle Juszczyk
Juszczyk’s Pro Bowl selection highlights a broader issue: he’s the only fullback most people can name. While a valuable piece of the 49ers’ offense, his spot feels more like a default choice in an increasingly positionless NFL.
Alternates: Recognition or Generosity?
Deommodore Lenoir: The Snubbed Shutdown Corner
If anyone on the 49ers roster deserved a full Pro Bowl selection, it was Lenoir. As one of the league’s top nickelbacks, he allowed just a 71.4 passer rating when targeted and an impressive 5.6 yards per target—elite numbers by any measure. His alternate status feels like an oversight.
Brock Purdy and Trent Williams: Reputation Picks
Purdy’s alternate designation is generous, reflecting more on the 49ers’ lackluster offensive results than his play. Meanwhile, Trent Williams’ reputation continues to carry him despite playing just 10 games this season.
The 49ers’ Problem: Fading Star Power
The decline in Pro Bowl selections signals a larger issue for San Francisco. Their core players, once dominant, are beginning to fade, and the team’s lack of emerging stars is glaring. With just six wins this season, it’s evident that the 49ers need an infusion of top-end talent to remain competitive in a stacked NFC.
What’s Next for San Francisco?
This offseason will be crucial. The 49ers must rebuild around younger talent while addressing glaring weaknesses. Their Pro Bowl alternates like Lenoir provide hope, but they’ll need more standout performers to reclaim their status as contenders.