3 takeaways from the 49ers’ second-half loss to the Lions

“He, like many of the 49ers’ rookie receivers, is not the most important player in the 49ers’ offense. He was ignored advancing behind Deebo Samuel, a player who can’t beat man coverage.

But he got his look Monday night. For the first time this season Pearsall was targeted more than six times and he delivered. On 10 targets, Pearsall caught eight for 141 yards and a touchdown, including a one-handed toe-drag reception. The only two incompletions were an overthrow and an undercut. He and George Kittle – who surpassed 1,000 yards this season for the fourth time in his career – were ever-present threats.”

What Kyle Shanahan said, others said after the 49ers’ 40-34 loss to the Lions

“San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and several others spoke to reporters after Monday’s 40-34 Week 17 loss to the Detroit Lions. Here’s what they said.”

The 49ers believe Brock Purdy is dealing with a nerve problem in his right elbow

“We’ve done some testing with UCL stuff and I’m good at that,” Purdy said. “But we’ll just have to take pictures of it tomorrow and see the whole thing.”

Before Purdy spoke to the media and discussed his night, Shanahan said doctors told him they thought the injury was “a nerve issue.” Shanahan said he “does not believe the injury is a long-term concern, but that further testing would be required to confirm this optimistic outlook.”

Thompson: For 49ers’ Dre Greenlaw, the pain and injuries of football are no match for his determination (Paywall)

The question of health remains this offseason. Greenlaw played just three games in 2021, a total of 36 games over the next two seasons including playoffs, and will finish this season with two games played. He’s due for a new contract this offseason, but his early return exit leaves at least some uncertainty about whether the 49ers will re-sign him and how much money he’ll make.

But in the grand scheme of Greenlaw, this is a feather-light problem. Resolvable by his same reliable motivations.

He is now 27 years old. He has made millions of dollars. But the pain of a traumatizing childhood still drives him. The trials of foster care, the struggles of a dysfunctional family, the poverty – Greenlaw has struggled with these obstacles most of his life.

He defeats them every day. With his positive spirit. With his transparent honesty. With his tireless quest to unite his people and prevent loneliness.

“I wanted to play football, and I wanted to do it to bring my family together,” Greenlaw said. “I cried every night in foster care. I prayed for this every night. And that’s why I play every night.”

49ers Awards: George Kittle, Dominick Puni and Other Standouts in a Terrible Year (Paywall)

“This award has never been given to a newcomer since its inception in 1981. However, Puni deserves consideration.” Not only was he one of the 49ers’ most consistent linemen, he was also one of the best interior linemen in the league. His 83.3 blocking grade from Pro Football Focus ranks fourth among guards who have started more than five games this season. The fact that Puni has started all 15 games so far – for a team that is usually reluctant to bring in rookies – is a testament to his maturity.”

Jed York confirms Shanahan and Lynch will return to 49ers in 2025 (Paywall)

“Over the next few minutes, York explained in general terms that while no one in the organization was happy with the results of this season and not every decision worked out, he wasn’t reflexively throwing everything out the window.

He noted that injuries to Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Aiyuk, Javon Hargrave and several others were devastating and that the team simply couldn’t turn things around after a few early losses. But York said Shanahan and Lynch have remained steady throughout this process and continue to be the best leaders for the team through 2025.

York said the 49ers still have a good roster and are confident they will be back in contention next season.”

The San Francisco 49ers’ opponents for 2025 have been determined after they secured the final spot

“In addition, the schedule includes matchups against the last-place teams in the NFC North (Bears), NFC East (Giants) and AFC North (Browns), as well as games against all teams in the NFC South and AFC South.”

Maiocco’s Observations: Purdy and Pearsall shined in the 49ers’ loss to the Lions

“Left guard Nick Zakelj made his first NFL start and recently signed left tackle Charlie Heck made his first start with the 49ers.

The 49ers offense started strong with Brock Purdy distributing the ball to Deebo Samuel, Ricky Pearsall and George Kittle.”