SANTA CLARA, CA - Two days after their season-ending loss to the Chicago Bears in the NFC Divisional Round, the San Francisco 49ers gathered at Levi's Stadium for locker room cleanout day - a moment that was equal parts reflection and determination. While the defeat in Chicago marked the end of their playoff run, players and staff focused on what went right this year and what needs to change going forward.
"We felt like we were right there," said quarterback Sam Howell, who threw for 335 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. "The guys battled all the way, but in the playoffs, it's about executing in those crucial moments. We didn't get it done."
Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk echoed Howell's sentiments. Aiyuk hauled in six passes for 116 yards and a touchdown on Sunday, capping off a stellar season that saw him become the team's go-to target. "I'm proud of what we accomplished, but it's tough when you fall short," he said. "We've got to turn the page and find ways to be better."
Veteran running back Christian McCaffrey was visibly frustrated by the 37 rushing yards he mustered against the Bears' front seven. "We're going to come back stronger," McCaffrey vowed. "This team is resilient. I know the guys in this room - we're not satisfied."
Meanwhile, head coach Jeffrey Jarin praised his team's fight throughout the season but acknowledged that there will be changes ahead. "You get to this point, you know it's never going to be the same 53 guys in here," Jarin said. "We had a great group. Now it's about building on it."
Several veterans are heading into contract years, including linebacker Fred Warner, safety Tracy Walker III, and offensive lineman Rob Havenstein. Their future in San Francisco remains uncertain. "It's the business side of the league," said Warner, who once again led the defense with physicality and leadership. "I love this team, but I know how things work. Whatever happens, I'm grateful for every snap I've played here."
For the 49ers, the offseason begins now, with decisions looming for both players and coaches. But the message from the locker room was clear: the foundation is set, and expectations remain sky-high in the Bay Area.
