RANKING The 49ers Rookie Class – Who Will BREAKOUT Next? 👀 | HO
To analyze which 49ers rookie might break out in the remainder of the season, it’s essential to consider each player’s contributions and potential as the team approaches the midpoint. The 49ers’ roster this year has a promising mix of draft picks and undrafted talent, all contributing to an improved depth and performance. In ranking the rookies, several have already shown they can be game-changers, while others are just starting to scratch the surface of their potential.
1. Don Poney (Offensive Guard) – Grade: A
Starting off, Don Poney has emerged as an incredibly reliable guard, making an immediate impact in the 49ers’ offensive line. Poney has been a wall in pass protection, boasting 289 pass-blocking opportunities without allowing a single sack. His ability to protect the quarterback gives him a pass-blocking efficiency score of 97.6, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). Poney’s disciplined technique, physicality, and consistency make him a strong candidate for continued success. Given his steady development, he could become one of the cornerstones of the 49ers’ offensive line for years to come. If he keeps performing at this level, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him garner All-Rookie honors.
2. Malik Mustafa (Safety) – Grade: A
Selected in the fourth round, Mustafa has exceeded expectations and has been one of the best-performing defensive backs on the team. His passer rating allowed when targeted is just 46.6, demonstrating his skill in coverage. Mustafa’s one interception and multiple pass breakups hint at a talent for creating turnovers. Known for his physicality and football IQ, Mustafa has shown a knack for being around the ball, which is invaluable for a safety. His ceiling is high, and with continued development, he could potentially emerge as a leader in the 49ers’ secondary.
3. Renardo Green (Cornerback) – Grade: A-
Green has quietly become a reliable figure in the 49ers’ secondary. As a second-round pick, he’s met high expectations with his 47.1% completion rate allowed and 83 passer rating against him. Renardo Green has been highly effective at shutting down receivers, often going unnoticed—a sign of a truly elite cornerback. His mentality, physicality, and consistency have already made him a trusted piece of the defense. With more playing time and experience, Green has the tools to evolve into one of the league’s top young corners. His trajectory suggests a future shutdown corner with Pro Bowl potential.
4. Isaac Rendo (Running Back) – Grade: B+
Isaac Rendo has shown flashes of explosive playmaking ability, especially with his impressive 6.1 yards per carry. His 227 rushing yards and several breakaway runs have highlighted his potential as a future contributor in the backfield. However, he’s had some missteps, including a few fumbles and questionable instincts on certain plays. If Rendo can tighten his fundamentals, especially in ball security, he could become a versatile weapon. His speed and size are unique, which makes him a threat in open space, especially if he develops the vision and patience needed to maximize his runs.
5. Evan Anderson (Defensive Tackle) – Grade: B+
Undrafted but not unnoticed, Evan Anderson has shown he belongs with the 49ers. With an 89.9 PFF grade in limited snaps, Anderson has demonstrated the ability to make impactful plays on both run defense and the pass rush. Standing at 325 pounds with incredible explosiveness, Anderson could evolve into a force on the defensive line with additional experience. Given his size, speed, and physicality, he has the tools to disrupt offensive lines and may be a key piece for the 49ers in short-yardage and goal-line situations as he continues to grow.
6. Ricky Peol (Wide Receiver) – Grade: B-
Ricky Peol, despite missing early games due to injury, has shown flashes of his potential with seven receptions from nine targets and a 139-yard end-around. Peol’s football IQ and drive to improve are promising signs for his growth. His recent performances show he’s settling into the offense, and with his high ceiling, Peol could soon become a valuable target. If he stays healthy and continues working on his route running and ball security, he may break out as a reliable option for the 49ers in the passing game.
7. Jacob Coing (Wide Receiver/Punt Returner) – Grade: C+
Though Coing has shown speed and playmaking ability, he’s struggled to establish himself as a reliable punt returner, including a muffed punt and occasional missteps. However, his two receptions for 50 yards show he can be an effective receiver. If Coing can overcome his inconsistencies in special teams, he could become a dangerous dual-threat player. Improving his fundamentals, especially catching punts consistently, could unlock his potential as a breakout candidate.
8. Tatum Bethune (Linebacker) – Grade: C+
Though Bethune has played limited snaps, he’s already made a mark with a fumble recovery on special teams. His intelligence and awareness are evident, and he’s quickly become a reliable contributor on special teams. While his size and speed might limit his role as a full-time linebacker, Bethune has the potential to carve out a niche role with the 49ers if he can improve his coverage skills.
9. Jaylen Mahoney (Safety) – Grade: C
Mahoney has primarily played on special teams, where he’s been solid but unspectacular. While he has yet to make a significant impact, his athleticism and positional awareness suggest potential. With limited playing time and no notable plays yet, Mahoney’s role remains developmental, and he’ll need to make strides in consistency and physicality to stand out.
Who Might Break Out Next?
Among these rookies, Isaac Rendo and Renardo Green stand out as prime candidates for breakout performances. Rendo’s combination of size, speed, and explosiveness means he could become a significant asset in the 49ers’ backfield if he refines his instincts and ball security. Green, on the other hand, has shown he can be a lockdown corner; if he continues his strong play, he could soon be widely recognized as a top defensive back.
The 49ers’ rookies have exceeded expectations, and their continued development is crucial for the team’s depth and long-term success. As they approach the season’s second half, keeping an eye on these promising players will be essential.
