San Francisco 49ers will win the NFC West in 2020, and here’s 5 reasons why

4. More safety nets for Garoppolo

The injury to Deebo Samuel, if it stretches into the new season, would be a significant blow to the 49ers, not just because of what he can do as a receiver from the slot but also for the dynamism he provides as a runner out of the backfield that San Francisco would miss with him on the sideline.

Samuel’s potential absence would appear to make Garoppolo’s life significantly more difficult. However, he may have more in the way of safety nets in 2020 as the Niners get back two versatile weapons who can each excel as a runner and a receiver.

Third-round pick Jalen Hurd, who missed his entire rookie year with a back injury, is healthy again and demonstrated significant promise as a wide receiver at Baylor having starred as a running back at Tennessee. He has an intriguing blend of size and quickness that allows him to have success from the slot. As a runner, he is extremely proficient in short yardage and can make a significant impact on sweeps and reverses, which are a staple of Shanahan’s diverse ground game.

Running back Jerick McKinnon has not played a regular-season down since the 2017 season because of a torn ACL but, if he can stay healthy for 2020, will likely be deployed across the formation as a receiver by Shanahan, who can make excellent use of his multi-faceted skill set.

Expecting Hurd and McKinnon to significantly contribute in 2020 is something of a projection but their respective presences should give Garoppolo more lay-ups and aid the ground game. Neither has played a snap for the Niners, yet they each figure to be pivotal in ensuring the offense does not lose a step even if Samuel is out Week 1.