That means San Francisco is the highest-ranked NFC squad, coming in at No. 3 overall.
As part of the ranking, ESPN writers were asked to identify one player on each roster who is on the hot seat heading into the 2020 season. 49ers beat writer Nick Wagoner named pass rusher Dee Ford.
"Knee issues limited Ford to 11 games and he averaged just 19.4 snaps per game in 2019," wrote Wagoner. "Ford had 'extensive' cleanup surgery on his left knee in the offseason in hopes of playing a larger role in 2020. Considering that Ford is in the second year of a five-year, $85 million deal with a $17.6 million cap number in 2021, his future with the team will depend on if he can produce at a level commensurate to his contract."
Wagoner goes on to note that San Francisco is further up against the salary-cap wall than it has been in recent years, and has several key players scheduled to hit free agency next year. While the 49ers recently locked up All-Pro tight end George Kittle for the foreseeable future, the list still includes some big names like tackle Trent Williams and cornerback Richard Sherman.
Ford was hindered last season by knee issues and a hamstring injury. Still, he racked up 6.5 sacks during his limited playing time.
The veteran pass rusher says he feels good following the offseason procedure. However, he left practice with an injury on Sunday. That is something to monitor. We'll likely receive an update on his status when head coach Kyle Shanahan speaks to reporters today.
With the salary cap expected to drop next season thanks to lost revenue due to the coronavirus pandemic, Wagoner can see the 49ers parting ways with Ford if he is unable to increase his production in 2020.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
"The worst may be yet to come": Week 14 power rankings analyze fall of the 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers' playoff chances took a significant hit Sunday following a 35-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. The defeat dropped San Francisco to 5-7 on the season and kept the team in last place in the NFC West, two games behind the division-leading... -
49ers injuries: Shanahan provides updates on Guerendo, Greenlaw, Purdy, Bosa, Williams, others
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reporters during a Monday conference call, a day after the team's dominant 38-13 victory over the Chicago Bears. He shared several injury updates from the Week 14 matchup. The 49ers face a short week of preparation as they... -
Brock Purdy update: Kyle Shanahan says 49ers QB has been 'great all week'
49ers quarterback Brock Purdy struggled during last Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills. Difficult weather conditions and his recent recovery from a shoulder injury likely contributed to his performance. This week, Purdy has been a full participant in practice and is... -
49ers vs. Bears final injury report: Williams won't play, Bosa doubtful
The San Francisco 49ers are preparing for their Week 14 contest against the Chicago Bears on Sunday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Both teams have released their official injury reports, which are provided below. San Francisco 49ers Out LB Dre Greenlaw...