San Francisco 49ers: 5 burning questions in 2018

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: A detailed view of a San Francisco 49ers helmet is seen resting on a bench post during the NFL football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the San Francisco 49ers by the score of 33-10. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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The San Francisco 49ers are flirting with being a contender in 2018, but what are the biggest questions surrounding the team heading into training camp?

The San Francisco 49ers haven’t been to the postseason since 2013 when they went 12-4 and lost in the NFC Championship Game to the Seattle Seahawks. In the following season, the 49ers finished 8-8 and Jim Harbaugh was relieved of his duties. Since, the 49ers have finished last in the division every season. However, there is a lot to be optimistic about heading into 2018 if you are a fan of the team.

Jimmy Garoppolo looks like a true franchise quarterback, Kyle Shanahan appears to be a good head coach, and the team has some solid pieces on defense. The biggest worry is perhaps the strength of the division, but anything can happen once the season starts.

Heading into training camp, there are some noticeable questions surrounding the team. Although these questions are much fewer than in previous seasons, they still need to be answered.

5. Will Sherman pan out?

One of the biggest moves of this offseason was Richard Sherman moving from the rival Seahawks to the Bay Area. Sherman’s value is known, he has been one of the best cornerbacks in the league over the last seven years. However, he is coming off of a ruptured Achilles and is in a new environment. It is hard to accurately predict how he will recover from the injury and adapt to his new city.

However, Sherman’s presencewill be vital to the young defense. Adding the accomplished veteran brings stability to the secondary. Although, it is much easier to lead while on the field instead of the injured reserve.

It remains to be seen how he will recover from his injury, but a healthy Sherman will be absolutely critical for the 49ers success next season. If he can help develop second year corner Ahkello Witherspoon, those two could be a formidable pairing in the secondary. But first, Sherman needs to get back on the field.