Editing San Francisco 49ers (section)

===York family era (2000–present)===
DeBartolo returned from his suspension in 1999, but a series of lawsuits over control of the family's vast holdings led him to surrender controlling interest to the Yorks as part of a 2000 settlement. Denise York became chair of the board, while John York became CEO. On the field, the [[1999 San Francisco 49ers season|1999 49ers]] got off to a 3–1 start, then in a nationally televised ''Monday Night Football'' game against the [[Arizona Cardinals]], Steve Young suffered a blindside hit from cornerback [[Aeneas Williams]] that knocked him out of the game and eventually convinced him to retire.<ref name="z058">{{cite web | last=Frye | first=Andy | title=Hall Of Fame Quarterback Steve Young Wants To Tackle Brain Injuries | website=Forbes | date=2018-09-13 | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/andyfrye/2018/09/13/hall-of-fame-quarterback-steve-young-wants-to-tackle-brain-injuries/ | access-date=2024-08-30}}</ref> At the time it was believed the severe hit ended his career but Young later said in interviews he could have come back to play another season or two. After meeting with then-general manager Bill Walsh and being told about how the salary cap troubles would make the team non-competitive, Young chose to retire rather than risk his long-term health further for a likely losing club. Without their future Hall of Famer, 29-year-old rookie [[Jeff Garcia]] took over as starting quarterback, but he would be benched for poor performances in favor of [[Steve Stenstrom]].<ref name="m419">{{cite web | title=49ers make QB switch | website=Stockton Record | date=1999-11-11 | url=https://www.recordnet.com/story/sports/1999/11/11/49ers-make-qb-switch/50814392007/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Garcia would be reinstated as the starting quarterback and in the final 5 games of the regular season. The 49ers lost 11 of their last 12 games and suffered their first losing season in a non-strike year since 1980, which was also the last time that the 49ers did not win at least ten or more games in a season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1999 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/1999.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> [[Bobb McKittrick]], 49ers offensive line coach since 1979, also died of cancer following the 1999 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/03/16/sports/bobb-mckittrick-64-coach-of-standout-offensive-line-for-49ers.html|title=Bobb McKittrick, 64, Coach of Standout Offensive Line for 49ers|work=[[The New York Times]]|date=March 16, 2000|last=Litsky|first=Frank|access-date=March 5, 2008|archive-date=November 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105065929/http://www.nytimes.com/2000/03/16/sports/bobb-mckittrick-64-coach-of-standout-offensive-line-for-49ers.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Before the [[2000 San Francisco 49ers season|2000 season]] Jeff Garcia was named the starting quarterback despite the 49ers drafting two quarterbacks ([[Giovanni Carmazzi]] in the third round and [[Tim Rattay]] in the seventh).<ref>{{Cite web |title=2000 San Francisco 49ers Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2000_draft.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> Garcia kept the starting job throughout the season and showed drastic improvement from the previous year. He broke a franchise record for most passing yards in one season, with 4,278 passing yards and 31 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions.<ref name="r633">{{cite web | title=San Francisco 49ers Single-Season Passing Leaders | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/single-season-passing.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Garcia and Terrell Owens, who established himself as the team's number-one receiver, both earned their first [[Pro Bowl]] selections.<ref name="w294">{{cite web | title=2000 NFL Pro Bowlers | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2000/probowl.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> However, the 49ers finished 6–10, missing the playoffs for the second straight season for the first time since 1979 and 1980, due to a defense that gave up 26.4 points per game and a total of 422 points.<ref name="a529">{{cite web | title=2000 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2000.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> The 2000 season was Jerry Rice's final year with the 49ers; he played 16 seasons with the team.<ref name="d717">{{cite web | title=Jerry Rice Bids Farewell to 49ers | website=ABC News | date=2000-12-24 | url=https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/story?id=100045&page=1 | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> In the [[2001 San Francisco 49ers season|2001 season]] the 49ers established themselves as a playoff team once again after two down years. They finished with a 12–4 record and a wildcard berth. A quarter of their wins came in 4th-quarter comebacks.<ref name="f696">{{cite web | title=2001 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com| url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2001.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Their defense also had a bounce-back year, going from the 28th-ranked defense in 2000, to the 9th-ranked.<ref name="f590">{{cite web | title=2001 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2001/opp.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Terrell Owens had become Jeff Garcia's favorite target. [[Garrison Hearst]], who had been forced to retire from football after breaking his ankle in the 1998 divisional playoffs, finally returned to the line-up after over two years of rehabilitation. He became the first player in NFL history to come back to football after suffering [[avascular necrosis]].<ref name="r459">{{cite web | last=Silver | first=Michael | title=True Grit Garrison Hearst refused to call it quits despite two seasons on the sidelines with a debilitating ankle injury, and now he's back in stride and playing a key role in the 49ers' surprising run to the playoffs | website=Sports Illustrated Vault | date=2002-01-07 | url=https://vault.si.com/vault/2002/01/07/true-grit-garrison-hearst-refused-to-call-it-quits-despite-two-seasons-on-the-sidelines-with-a-debilitating-ankle-injury-and-now-hes-back-in-stride-and-playing-a-key-role-in-the-49ers-surprising-run-to-the-playoffs | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> He had an excellent season, rushing for 1,206 yards on a 4.8 average.<ref name="i572">{{cite web | title=Garrison Hearst 2001 Game Log | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HearGa00/gamelog/2001/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> His comeback earned him the [[NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award]].<ref name="t916">{{cite web | title=Comeback player award isn't a first for Hearst | website=Cape Cod Times | date=2002-02-03 | url=https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/sports/2002/02/03/comeback-player-award-isn-t/50668974007/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> In the final six weeks of the season the 49ers defense shut out three teams (the [[Buffalo Bills]], [[Miami Dolphins]], and [[New Orleans Saints]]), and had one of the most stupendous goal-line stands against the [[Philadelphia Eagles]]. In the team's first playoff game in 2 years, they played against the [[Green Bay Packers]] at [[Lambeau Field]] in the [[2001–02 NFL playoffs#NFC: Green Bay Packers 25, San Francisco 49ers 15|NFC Wild Card]], but lost 25–15.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers - January 13th, 2002 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200201130gnb.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

The [[2002 NFL season]] began with the [[2002 NFL season#Expansion and realignment|divisional realignment]]. The 49ers gained two new divisional rivals, the [[Seattle Seahawks]] and Arizona Cardinals, while former divisional foes [[Atlanta Falcons]], New Orleans Saints, and [[Carolina Panthers]] moved to the newly formed [[NFC South]].<ref name="u551">{{cite web| title=When the NFL added two divisions -- and weakened the AFC West | website=NBC Sports | date=2014-05-22 | url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/when-the-nfl-added-two-divisions-and-weakened-the-afc-west | access-date=2024-08-30}}</ref> The team's production dropped from the previous year. Jeff Garcia went from having 31 and 32 touchdowns in the previous 2 seasons, to only 21 in 2002. The 49ers defense struggled at times, dropping from the 9th-ranked defense in the previous season to the 19th-ranked.<ref name="t315">{{cite web | title=2002 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2002/opp.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Even though the team did not have the same success as they did in the 2001 regular season, the 49ers won the NFC West for the first time since 1997, with the division-clinching game coming on a last-second touchdown pass to Terrell Owens against the [[Dallas Cowboys]]. The 49ers finished 10–6.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2002 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2002.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> In the [[2002–03 NFL playoffs]] they hosted the [[New York Giants]] in the [[2002–03 NFL playoffs#NFC: San Francisco 49ers 39, New York Giants 38|2002 NFC Wild Card]]. The Giants had a 38–14 lead late in the third quarter; however, the Giants defense, which had been highly ranked all year, began to collapse, and by the final minute in the 4th quarter Jeff Garcia had led the team back from the 24-point deficit to take a 1-point lead. Giants quarterback [[Kerry Collins]] then led a drive in the game's final minute to put the Giants at the 49ers' 23-yard line with six seconds left for a shot at a game-winning field goal. [[Long snapper]] [[Trey Junkin]], who had been signed by the Giants that week, made a bad snap, so holder [[Matt Allen]] attempted a desperate pass down the field, which fell incomplete, but there was a flag on the play. The initial thought by spectators and the Giants was that pass interference had clearly been committed by the 49ers defense, but the flag was against the Giants for an ineligible receiver, so the game was over. The next day, the NFL admitted that the referee had blown the call, that the 49ers had indeed committed pass interference, and that the down should have been replayed.<ref name="d985">{{cite web | agency=Associated Press | title=N.F.L. Says Giants' Game Ended With Referee Error | website=The New York Times | date=2003-01-06 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/01/06/sports/football/nfl-says-giants-game-ended-with-referee-error.html | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> A press conference was held, and a reporter asked 49ers head coach [[Steve Mariucci]] about his thoughts on the NFL saying they blew the call, and he replied: "Bummer". It was the second-biggest comeback victory in NFL playoff history, with the 49ers winning 39–38.<ref name="y110">{{cite web | last=Borden | first=Sam | title=Giants' Loss to 49ers Still Stings 9 Years Later | website=The New York Times | date=2012-01-17 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/17/sports/football/giants-loss-to-49ers-still-stings-9-years-later.html | access-date=2024-08-30}}</ref> The 49ers lost the next week to the eventual Super Bowl champion [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] in the [[2002–03 NFL playoffs#NFC: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31, San Francisco 49ers 6|Divisional round]], 31–6.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - San Francisco 49ers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - January 12th, 2003 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200301120tam.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> This was the last postseason appearance for the 49ers until the [[2011–12 NFL playoffs|2011–12 playoffs]]. Steve Mariucci, whose published statements about his degree of power in the organization had frayed already-strained relations with management, was fired by John York, despite a winning record in a clash of egos.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=January 16, 2003|title=49ers fire Mariucci over clash of big egos|url=https://www.deseret.com/2003/1/16/19699169/49ers-fire-mariucci-over-clash-of-big-egos|url-status=live|access-date=December 18, 2021|website=Deseret News|language=en|archive-date=November 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211119034100/https://www.deseret.com/2003/1/16/19699169/49ers-fire-mariucci-over-clash-of-big-egos}}</ref>

Then-[[Oregon State University|Oregon State]] head coach [[Dennis Erickson]] was signed to a five-year contract to replace Mariucci.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42814843/reno_gazettejournal/|title=Niners Choose Erickson|newspaper=Reno Gazette-Journal|location=Reno, Nevada|date=February 12, 2003|agency=Associated Press|page=B1|access-date=January 23, 2020|archive-date=May 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506062459/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42814843/reno-gazette-journal/|url-status=live}}</ref> The hiring of Erickson was highly criticized by the fans and the media, as Erickson's offensive philosophy was very different from the West Coast offense. The 2003 season was one of turmoil for the 49ers. While the Niners started the season with a 49–7 demolishing of Chicago, the team quickly began to unravel afterwards, as the relationship between Garcia and Owens turned sour upon Garcia taking issue with Owens's public praise for the play of backup quarterback Tim Rattay. Garcia responded with a cryptic remark of "we cannot let the sickness spread"; in response, Owens wore a surgeon's mask at the following practice. The team was also ravaged by injuries to key players on both sides of the ball; the often reckless play of Jeff Garcia started to take a toll on him, as he was forced to miss 3 games during the season. The 49ers finished 7–9 and missed the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2003 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2003.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> Despite this disappointing result, Erickson was retained as coach for the 2004 season. Owens' on- and off-field antics led to the 49ers trading him to the Philadelphia Eagles during the offseason.<ref name="d154">{{cite news | last=Maske | first=Mark | title=Owens Winds Up An Eagle | newspaper=Washington Post | date=2004-03-17 | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/2004/03/17/owens-winds-up-an-eagle/1f55ea9f-0ffa-4eb4-b250-2426d5f0a892/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Several other key 49er players were released due to salary cap concerns, including Garcia and Hearst.<ref name="d755">{{cite web | last=Fabiano | first=Michael | title=In the Trenches: 49ers release Garcia | website=CBSSports.com | date=2004-03-03 | url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/in-the-trenches-49ers-release-garcia/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> The team finished the 2004 season with a 2–14 record, tying a franchise-worst and finishing last in the NFC West for the first time since 1979, ending what had been the NFL's longest active streak for not finishing last in a division.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2004.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> With the worst record in the NFL the team secured the rights to the first pick in the NFL Draft. Dennis Erickson and general manager [[Terry Donahue]] were fired.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/erickson-fired-after-two-years-with-49ers/|title=Erickson fired after two years with 49ers|author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.-->|date=January 5, 2005|website=The Seattle Times|access-date=November 19, 2021|archive-date=November 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211119035301/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/erickson-fired-after-two-years-with-49ers/|url-status=live}}</ref>
[[File:Frank Gore - San Francisco vs Green Bay 2012 (2).jpg|thumb|49ers' former running back [[Frank Gore]]]]
After an extensive coaching search, the 49ers hired the defensive coordinator of the [[Baltimore Ravens]] [[Mike Nolan]] as their head coach.<ref name="y485">{{cite web | title=Nolan Hired to Coach the 49ers | website=The New York Times | date=2005-01-18 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/01/18/sports/football/nolan-hired-to-coach-the-49ers.html | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Nolan was the son of [[Dick Nolan (American football)|Dick Nolan]], who had led the team to three consecutive playoff appearances from 1970 to 1972. The 49ers did not hire a general manager. In Mike Nolan's first draft as head coach, he selected quarterback [[Alex Smith]] from the [[Utah Utes football|University of Utah]] with the first overall pick of the [[2005 NFL draft]]. It was a pick predicted by most, though many thought the 49ers might select local product [[Aaron Rodgers]] of the [[California Golden Bears football|University of California]].<ref name="f239">{{cite web | last=Thamel | first=Pete | title=Top Pick Will Try to Restore 49ers' Old Identity | website=The New York Times | date=2005-04-24 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/04/24/sports/football/top-pick-will-try-to-restore-49ers-old-identity.html | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Alex Smith's rookie season was a disaster, producing only one touchdown against eleven interceptions. The team finished 4th in the NFC West for the second consecutive year, with a 4–12 record.<ref name="j260">{{cite web | title=2005 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2005.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> This earned the 49ers the 6th pick in the [[2006 NFL draft]] which they used to draft tight end [[Vernon Davis]].<ref name="p005">{{cite web | last=Gutierrez | first=Paul | title=Davis a rare mainstay from 2006 draft | website=ESPN.com | date=2015-02-26 | url=https://www.espn.com/blog/san-francisco-49ers/post/_/id/12346/vernon-davis-a-rare-mainstay-from-2006-draft | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Alex Smith and the team improved greatly in 2006, led by second-year player [[Frank Gore]] from the [[Miami Hurricanes football|University of Miami]]. Gore ran for a franchise record of 1,695 rushing yards, which led the NFC, along with 8 touchdowns.<ref name="a402">{{cite web | title=2006 NFL Rushing | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2006/rushing.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> He was awarded his first Pro Bowl appearance.<ref name="i477">{{cite web | last=Georgatos | first=Dennis | title=Gore named to Pro Bowl | website=Monterey Herald | date=2006-12-20 | url=https://www.montereyherald.com/2006/12/20/gore-named-to-pro-bowl/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> They also swept division rival and defending NFC Champion, [[2006 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]], and kept the [[2006 Denver Broncos season|Denver Broncos]] from a playoff berth in the last game of the season. However, the team finished 7–9, their fourth consecutive losing season.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2006.htm|title=2006 San Francisco 49ers Statistics & Players|website=Pro-Football-Reference.com|access-date=November 19, 2021|archive-date=February 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204124007/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2006.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Alex Smith warm up 1.jpg|left|thumb|upright|49ers' former quarterback [[Alex Smith]]]]
In the off-season, the 49ers signed cornerback [[Nate Clements]] and safety [[Michael Lewis (safety)|Michael Lewis]] to improve their secondary.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2007-09-26 |title=49ers bring in Lewis to replace struggling punt returner Williams |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3036397 |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> Clement's contract was worth $80 million for eight years, the largest contract given to a defensive player in NFL history at the time.<ref name="w055">{{cite web | last=Pasquarelli | first=Len | title=49ers make Clements NFL's highest-paid defender ever | website=ESPN.com | date=2007-03-03 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2786253 | access-date=2024-08-30}}</ref> In the [[2007 NFL draft|NFL draft]], the 49ers made another key addition to their defense, selecting middle linebacker [[Patrick Willis]] with the 11th overall pick.<ref name="o344">{{cite web | last=Sando | first=Mike | title=Willis is toughness personified | website=ESPN.com | date=2012-01-26 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7497910/patrick-willis-san-francisco-49ers-toughness-personified | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Willis would eventually be named the 2007 [[AP Defensive Rookie of the Year|AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year]].<ref name="w887">{{cite web | title=49ers LB Willis is AP's Top Defensive Rookie | website=49ers.com | date=2008-01-04 | url=https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-lb-willis-is-ap-s-top-defensive-rookie-519800 | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Before the beginning of the 2007 season, Hall of Fame coach [[Bill Walsh (American football coach)|Bill Walsh]] died of complications from [[leukemia]].<ref name="g017">{{cite web | last=Goldstein | first=Richard | title=Bill Walsh, Innovator of West Coast Offense, Dies at 75 | website=The New York Times | date=2007-07-31 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/31/sports/football/31walsh.html | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> The 49ers started the season 2–0, for the first time since [[1998 NFL season|1998]]. In the fourth game of the season, against the [[2007 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]], Alex Smith suffered a separated shoulder on the third play of the game, an injury that severely hampered his play and ultimately led to an early end to his 2008 campaign after having shoulder surgery.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2008-09-10 |title=Niners QB Smith has broken shoulder, won't play this season |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3579991 |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> Chiefly due to back-up quarterback [[Trent Dilfer]]'s struggles and Alex Smith's injury, the 49ers lost eight straight consecutive games from week three through week twelve, ending the year with a disappointing 5–11 record.<ref name="i018">{{cite web | title=2007 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2007.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Questions were raised about the future of Alex Smith, whose first three seasons had been plagued by inconsistent play, injuries, and never having had the same offensive coordinator from one year to the next. Head coach Mike Nolan and new offensive coordinator [[Mike Martz]] stated that a competition between Smith, [[Shaun Hill]], and NFL journeyman [[J. T. O'Sullivan]] would run through the first two preseason games of 2008.<ref name="q573">{{cite web | title=49ers hire Martz to take over offense | website=NFL.com | date=2008-01-08 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/49ers-hire-martz-to-take-over-offense-09000d5d805d79cf | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> O'Sullivan was named the 49ers starter because of his familiarity with the Martz offense and after performing better than Smith or Hill in the first three preseason games.<ref name="k216">{{cite web | title=49ers QB O'Sullivan wins starting job | website=NFL.com | date=2008-08-22 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/49ers-qb-o-sullivan-wins-starting-job-09000d5d80a31e22 | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> On October 20, 2008, after a 2–5 start, Mike Nolan was fired. Assistant head coach [[Mike Singletary]], a [[Pro Football Hall of Fame|Hall of Fame]] linebacker with the [[Chicago Bears]], was named as the interim head coach.<ref name="d320">{{cite web | last=Clayton | first=John | title=49ers fire coach Nolan, give job to assistant Singletary | website=ESPN.com | date=2008-10-21 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3654528 | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Singletary proved to be a fan favorite when after his first game as head coach he delivered a memorable post-game interview. Singletary said of their loss: "... right now, we've got to figure out the formula. Our formula. Our formula is this: We go out, we hit people in the mouth."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.entertonement.com/clips/xjtxzdvvnb--Hit-People-in-the-Mouth|archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20170525154407/http://www.hark.com/clips/pkqhdpglqz-mike-singletary-press-conference|url-status=usurped|archive-date=May 25, 2017|title=Mike Singletary Press Conference "Hit-People-in-the-Mouth"|access-date=August 12, 2017}}</ref> The team went 5–4 overall under Singletary, winning five of its final seven games and ending the season with a 7–9 record.<ref name="i530">{{cite web | title=2008 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2008.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> After the last game of the season, Singletary was named permanent head coach by Jed York, who had been appointed as team president just days before. [[Jed York]] is the son of John York and Denise DeBartolo York.<ref name="early bio">{{cite web | url=http://www.mercurynews.com/49ers/ci_12706543?source=rss | title=Young Jed York is growing into his role as face of 49ers | first=Ann | last=Killion | work=[[San Jose Mercury News]] | date=June 27, 2009 | access-date=July 4, 2009 | archive-date=January 28, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128141204/http://www.mercurynews.com/49ers/ci_12706543?source=rss | url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:49ers Offense.jpg|thumb|[[Trent Dilfer]] (#12) quarterbacks the 2007 49ers.]]

On April 25, 2009, the 49ers selected Texas Tech wide receiver [[Michael Crabtree]], a player many people thought would go in the top five, with the 10th pick in the first round of the [[2009 NFL draft]].<ref name="m449">{{cite web | last=Battista | first=Judy | title=Crabtree Ends His Holdout With 49ers | website=The New York Times | date=2009-10-07 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/08/sports/football/08nfl.html | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> The 2009 training camp became the first since 2005 that the 49ers failed to have all drafted rookies signed and in training camp on time, as Crabtree held out trying to reach a contract. He finally reached a contract agreement on October 7, 2009, having missed the first four games of the regular season. The 49ers posted an 8–8 record after a frustrating season, losing only 2 games by more than a touchdown.<ref name="b423">{{cite web | title=2009 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2009.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> Nevertheless, it was the team's first non-losing season since 2002.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melendez |first=Eric |date=December 31, 2009 |title=2000s: 49ers Debacle Decade |url=https://ninernoise.com/2009/12/31/2000s-49ers-debacle-decade/ |access-date=June 21, 2022 |website=Niner Noise |language=en-US}}</ref> Despite missing the playoffs for the seventh straight season, several key players showed signs of improvement. Alex Smith regained his role as the 49ers' starting quarterback (after Shaun Hill had won the starting job in training camp), passing for more than 2,000 yards with 19 touchdowns, while Frank Gore collected his fourth consecutive 1,000-yard season, a 49ers record. Safety [[Dashon Goldson]] showed signs of potential in his first year as full-time starter, as he tallied 94 tackles, four interceptions, three forced fumbles, and two sacks. Vernon Davis in particular had a breakthrough year at tight end, earning Pro Bowl honors with 965 yards and 13 touchdowns (tying the NFL record for his position).<ref name="b040">{{cite web | title=Vernon Davis 2009 Game Log | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/D/DaviVe00/gamelog/2009/ | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> 2010 saw five 49ers go to the Pro Bowl: Patrick Willis, Vernon Davis, Frank Gore, Justin Smith, and punter Andy Lee.<ref name="l722">{{cite web | title=2009 NFL Pro Bowlers | website=Pro-Football-Reference.com | url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2009/probowl.htm | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref>

The [[2010 NFL season|2010 season]] started with the 49ers heavy favorites to win the NFC West after Cardinals quarterback [[Kurt Warner]] retired early in the offseason, but the season was a disaster. They started 0–5, their worst start since the dark days of 1979.<ref name="o637">{{cite web |agency=Associated Press | title=49ers fall to 0-5 for first time since 1979 | website=ESPN.com | date=2010-10-11 | url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/5672672 | access-date=2024-09-01}}</ref> In week 3, the 49ers fired offensive coordinator [[Jimmy Raye II|Jimmy Raye]], who had been hand-picked by Singletary in the 2009 offseason.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2010-09-27 |title=49ers fire coordinator Jimmy Raye |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=5621612 |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> Starting safety Michael Lewis demanded to be released after he was demoted in favor of rookie safety [[Taylor Mays]]. By mid-season, Singletary was switching quarterbacks between Alex Smith and [[Troy Smith]], who had been picked up in free agency after the preseason, but with little effect. On December 27, 2010, the 49ers fired Mike Singletary as head coach, naming defensive line coach [[Jim Tomsula]] as interim head coach for the last game of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sando |first=Mike |date=December 27, 2010 |title=Mike Singletary out, D-line aide in at S.F. |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=5958834 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101228140929/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5958834 |archive-date=December 28, 2010 |access-date=February 2, 2022 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> The 49ers finished 6–10 that season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2010 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2010.htm |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

==== Jim Harbaugh years (2011–2014) ====
On January 4, 2011, Jed York promoted interim General Manager [[Trent Baalke]] to be the permanent general manager. Baalke had taken over the role after former general manager [[Scot McCloughan]] was relieved of his duties the year before. Two days later, on January 7, 2011, former head coach of [[Stanford Cardinal football|Stanford University]] [[Jim Harbaugh]] was named the 49ers new head coach.<ref name="harbaugh">{{Cite web |last=Schefter |first=Adam |date=January 9, 2011 |title=Jim Harbaugh to 49ers, evokes 'Genius' |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=5999744 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109215252/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5999744 |archive-date=January 9, 2016 |access-date=February 2, 2022 |website=[[ESPN.com]]|agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref> In the [[2011 NFL draft]], the 49ers selected defensive end/linebacker [[Aldon Smith]] from the [[Missouri Tigers football|University of Missouri]] with the seventh pick of the first round. The 49ers also selected quarterback [[Colin Kaepernick]] from the [[Nevada Wolf Pack football|University of Nevada, Reno]] with the 36th overall pick in the second round.<ref name="y027">{{cite web | last=Davis | first=Nate | title=Dad: Jim Harbaugh thought Colin Kaepernick was best player in 2011 draft | website=USA TODAY | date=2013-02-02 | url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2013/02/01/colin-kaepernick-2011-draft-jim-harbaugh-jack-coaches-show/1885181/ | access-date=2024-08-30}}</ref>
[[File:Jim Harbaugh in 2007.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Jim Harbaugh]] took over as head coach in 2011.]]

After the end of a labor dispute that nearly threatened to postpone or cancel the [[2011 NFL season|2011 season]] the 49ers made a controversial decision to re-sign [[Alex Smith]] to a one-year $4.8 million contract.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Killion |first=Ann |title=New era begins for 49ers, but will San Francisco get any better? |date=August 1, 2011 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/ann_killion/08/01/49ers/?sct=hp_t11_a4 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130819155911/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/ann_killion/08/01/49ers/?sct=hp_t11_a4 |archive-date=August 19, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Because of the decision to retain Smith, and a shortened offseason with an entirely new coaching staff being hired, the team was expected to be among the league's worst by NFL prognosticators. Despite this, Harbaugh's first season was a huge success. After 10 weeks the 49ers were 9–1, highlighted by road wins against the [[2011 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]], where the team came back from a 20-point deficit in the second half, and the previously unbeaten [[2011 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]]. The 49ers' defense became one of the most intimidating in the league, particularly against the run – not allowing a 100-yard rusher or a single rushing touchdown until week 16 of the regular season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42769643/statesman_journal/|title=Akers Sets Field Goal Record in Win|last1=Booth|first1=Tim|agency=Associated Press|newspaper=Statesman Journal|location=Salem, Oregon|date=December 25, 2011|via=Newspapers.com|page=3B|access-date=January 22, 2020|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308150729/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42769643/statesman-journal/|url-status=live}}</ref> Alex Smith blossomed in the new system, reviving his career while playing for yet another new offensive coordinator – his sixth in six years. In week 13 the 49ers won the NFC West with a victory against the [[2011 St. Louis Rams season|St. Louis Rams]], finally ending their nine-year playoff drought. The 49ers finished the season with a 13–3 record, earning the second overall seed in the [[2011–12 NFL Playoffs|NFC Playoffs]]. In the [[2011–12 NFL playoffs|Divisional Playoffs]] they defeated the [[2011 New Orleans Saints season|New Orleans Saints]] 36–32 after a [[The Catch (American football)#The Catch III|touchdown pass]] from Alex Smith to [[Vernon Davis]] in the closing seconds of the game. The team reached the [[2011–12 NFL Playoffs|NFC championship]] for the first time since 1997 and faced the [[2011 New York Giants season|New York Giants]]. They lost to the Giants with a 20–17 score in overtime after two critical fumbles by backup return man [[Kyle Williams (wide receiver, born 1988)|Kyle Williams]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42638705/the_dispatch/|title=Williams; 49ers Fumble Away Chance at NFC Title|date=January 23, 2012|newspaper=The Dispatch|location=Moline, Illinois|agency=Associated Press|page=20|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084410/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42638705/the-dispatch/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2012, the 49ers were predicted to be the NFC West champions and possibly make a run for the Super Bowl. Starting the season 6–2, the 49ers went on to face the rival [[2012 St. Louis Rams season|St. Louis Rams]] in Week 10. Alex Smith suffered a concussion in the second quarter and exited the game. He was replaced by [[2011 NFL draft|2011]] second-round pick Colin Kaepernick, who led the 49ers back to tie the game. The next week, Kaepernick and the 49ers blew out the [[2012 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] 32–7, and Harbaugh chose Kaepernick as the starter next week against the [[2012 New Orleans Saints season|New Orleans Saints]], despite Smith being cleared to play. A quarterback controversy began. Despite Smith leading the NFL in completion percentage (70%) and passer rating (104.1), Kaepernick was considered more dynamic with his scrambling ability and arm strength.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Dodds|first=Eric|title=Examining the 49ers Quarterback Controversy|date=November 28, 2012|magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]|url=https://keepingscore.blogs.time.com/2012/11/28/examining-the-49ers-quarterback-controversy/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121130214948/http://keepingscore.blogs.time.com/2012/11/28/examining-the-49ers-quarterback-controversy/|archive-date=November 30, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Sando|first=Mike|title=Reaching back for 49ers QB parallels|date=November 27, 2012|work=ESPN|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/82904/reaching-back-for-49ers-qb-parallels|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121031215137/https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/82904/reaching-back-for-49ers-qb-parallels|archive-date=October 31, 2012|url-status=live|access-date=February 2, 2022}}</ref> Kaepernick eventually started the rest of the season, going 5–2. Kaepernick set the record for rushing yards for a quarterback in the playoffs with 181 rushing yds against the [[2012 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42638363/wisconsin_state_journal/|title=Kaepernick Shreds Green Bay for Record 181 Rushing Yards|last1=Dougherty|first1=Pete|newspaper=Wisconsin State Journal|location=Madison, Wisconsin|date=January 13, 2013|via=Newspapers.com|page=D4|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084410/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42638363/wisconsin-state-journal/|url-status=live}}</ref> The 49ers defeated the Packers and [[2012 Atlanta Falcons season|Atlanta Falcons]] in the [[2012–13 NFL playoffs|playoffs]] and advanced to [[Super Bowl XLVII]], but were denied their sixth Super Bowl win against the [[2012 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]], who were coached by [[John Harbaugh]], 34–31.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42770015/the_san_francisco_examiner/|title=Drama Prevails in Brother Battle|newspaper=The San Francisco Examiner|location=San Francisco, California|date=February 4, 2013|page=A21|via=Newspapers.com|agency=Associated Press|last1=Martel|first1=Brett|access-date=January 22, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084410/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42770015/the-san-francisco-examiner/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Another storyline towards the end of the 2012 season was the reliability of kicker [[David Akers]]. Towards the end of the season, he began to show signs of decline, missing one field goal of 20–30 yards, two field goals of 30–40 yards, and six field goals of 40–50 yards for a below-average conversion percentage of 69%.<ref>{{Cite web |title=David Akers Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/akersdav01.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705202634/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/akersdav01.htm |archive-date=July 5, 2017 |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> Akers was released on March 6, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Gonzalez|first=Antonio|url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/49ers-release-6-time-pro-bowl-kicker-david-235317745--nfl.html|title=49ers release 6-time Pro Bowl kicker David Akers|publisher=[[Yahoo! News]]|date=March 6, 2013|access-date=August 12, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813014611/https://www.yahoo.com/news/49ers-release-6-time-pro-bowl-kicker-david-235317745--nfl.html|archive-date=August 13, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Shortly afterwards, the 49ers signed veteran kicker [[Phil Dawson]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.49ers.com/video/videos/49ers-Sign-Kicker-Phil-Dawson/19bd1f3b-cf93-4a55-a93f-6d6ba55c6398|title=49ers Sign Kicker Phil Dawson|work=49ers.com|last=Kegley|first=Scott|date=March 19, 2013|access-date=August 12, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813011745/http://www.49ers.com/video/videos/49ers-Sign-Kicker-Phil-Dawson/19bd1f3b-cf93-4a55-a93f-6d6ba55c6398|archive-date=August 13, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The 49ers would also trade a sixth round draft pick for wide receiver Anquan Boldin from the Baltimore Ravens, the team that had beaten them in the Super Bowl.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/anquan-boldin-to-be-traded-to-san-francisco-49ers-0ap1000000149401|title=Anquan Boldin to be traded to San Francisco 49ers|website=[[NFL.com]]|access-date=September 11, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921180718/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000149401/article/anquan-boldin-to-be-traded-to-san-francisco-49ers|archive-date=September 21, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

The 49ers finished 12–4 in the 2013 regular season and enter the playoffs as a wildcard, with their first game at [[Lambeau Field]] against the [[2013 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sfgate.com/49ers/article/49ers-win-finale-to-face-Packers-in-playoffs-5100457.php|title=49ers win finale, to face Packers in playoffs|first=Eric|last=Branch|date=December 29, 2013|work=SFGate.com|access-date=December 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230110634/http://www.sfgate.com/49ers/article/49ers-win-finale-to-face-Packers-in-playoffs-5100457.php|archive-date=December 30, 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> On January 5, 2014, San Francisco 49ers defeated Green Bay Packers 23–20. On January 12, 2014, the 49ers defeated the Carolina Panthers 23–10, thus advancing to their third straight NFC championship game.<ref>{{cite news|last=Branch|first=Eric|title=Kaepernick drives 49ers to cold win over Packers|url=http://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Kaepernick-drives-49ers-to-cold-win-over-Packers-5116352.php|work=SFGate.com|date=January 6, 2014|access-date=January 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106034411/http://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Kaepernick-drives-49ers-to-cold-win-over-Packers-5116352.php|archive-date=January 6, 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> However, the 49ers' season ended at [[CenturyLink Field]] in Seattle, when a pass intended for Michael Crabtree was tipped by cornerback [[Richard Sherman (American football)|Richard Sherman]] and intercepted by linebacker [[Malcolm Smith (American football)|Malcolm Smith]], losing to the [[2013 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]], [[2013–14 NFL playoffs#NFC Championship Game: Seattle Seahawks 23, San Francisco 49ers 17|23–17]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42637897/chicago_tribune/|title=Sherman Tips Balance|last1=Farmer|first1=Sam|newspaper=The Chicago Tribune|date=January 20, 2014|page=3-3|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084432/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42637897/chicago-tribune/|url-status=live}}</ref> After the Niners had their first 8–8 season in 4 years, which included losses to the Bay Area rival [[Oakland Raiders]], [[Chicago Bears]], and [[St. Louis Rams]], the collapse of a once-dominant offensive line, failing to reach the playoffs, Harbaugh and the 49ers decided to part ways on December 28, 2014, after the season's final game, against the [[2014 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]], which the 49ers won 20–17.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42638097/the_akron_beacon_journal/|title=49ers Say Goodbye to Coach with Win|date=December 29, 2014|agency=Associated Press|newspaper=The Akron Beacon Journal|location=Akron, Ohio|page=C6|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084411/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42638097/the-akron-beacon-journal/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On November 8, 2006, reports surfaced that the 49ers ended negotiations with the city of San Francisco about building a new stadium and plan to do so in [[Santa Clara, California|Santa Clara]], a suburb of [[San Jose, California|San Jose]]; Santa Clara already hosts the team's administrative headquarters and training facility. The Yorks and then-San Francisco mayor [[Gavin Newsom]] had been talking over the last few months about building a privately financed stadium at Candlestick Point that was intended to be part of the city's bid for the [[2016 Summer Olympics]]. The 49ers' final decision to move the stadium ended the [[San Francisco bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics]]. San Francisco, [[Los Angeles bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics|Los Angeles]], and [[Chicago bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics|Chicago]] were the three cities competing to be the U.S. Olympic Committee's choice to bid on the 2016 games, with Chicago emerging as the eventual victor.<ref name="ChiBid">{{Cite news |date=April 14, 2007 |title=Chicago Chosen To Bid For 2016 Olympics |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/chicago-chosen-to-bid-for-2016-olympics/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070920023125/http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/04/14/national/main2684134.shtml |archive-date=September 20, 2007 |access-date=March 2, 2010 |work=CBS News }}</ref>

The 49ers sponsored ''Measure J'', which appeared on the June 8, 2010, Santa Clara ballot, to build a new stadium as the future home of the San Francisco 49ers in that city. The measure passed with 58.2% of the total vote. This was seen as the first step for the 49ers stadium relocation to a new venue to be built in Santa Clara.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ballotpedia.org/wiki/index.php/Santa_Clara_Stadium_for_the_49ers,_Measure_J_%28June_2010%29|title=Santa Clara Stadium for the 49ers, Measure J (June 2010)|work=Ballotpedia |access-date=January 28, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121122021254/http://ballotpedia.org/wiki/index.php/Santa_Clara_Stadium_for_the_49ers,_Measure_J_(June_2010)|archive-date=November 22, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref>

The 68,490-seat venue, [[Levi's Stadium]], landed rights for its first event. The stadium was home to the [[Fight Hunger Bowl]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rosenberg |first=Mike |date=November 20, 2012 |title=49ers' new South Bay Stadium gets college bowl game |url=http://www.mercurynews.com/southbayfootball/ci_22034293/san-francisco-49ers-new-south-bay-stadium-gets |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130119220152/http://www.mercurynews.com/southbayfootball/ci_22034293/san-francisco-49ers-new-south-bay-stadium-gets |archive-date=January 19, 2013 |access-date=January 27, 2013 |website=Mercury News}}</ref>
On the 49ers website, the team's owner, businessman John York had a letter stating that after a stadium is constructed in Santa Clara, the team would retain its name "San Francisco" even though the team would no longer be located within [[San Francisco–Oakland–Hayward, CA Metropolitan Statistical Area|Metro San Francisco]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=York |first=John |title=Letter to 49ers Faithful |url=http://49ers.com/pressbox/news_detail.php?PRKey=2515 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928071225/http://49ers.com/pressbox/news_detail.php?PRKey=2515 |archive-date=September 28, 2007 |access-date=November 12, 2006 |website=49ers.com}}</ref>

United States Senator [[Dianne Feinstein]] and other leaders threatened an attempt to prevent the team from using "San Francisco" or the "49ers" in the team name, but probably would not have succeeded without changes to state or federal law.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/Feinstein-says-she-ll-fight-49ers-over-SF-2484729.php|work=The San Francisco Chronicle|first=Edward|last=Epstein|title=Dianne Feinstein leads charge for keeping 49ers in S.F.|date=November 14, 2006|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120701170120/http://articles.sfgate.com/2006-11-14/bay-area/17321038_1_feinstein-49ers-owner-john-york-long-beach-state-49ers|archive-date=July 1, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|author=<!--Not stated-->|title=Senator Feinstein Announces Plans to Explore Legislative Options to Keep the San Francisco 49ers in San Francisco|date=November 14, 2006|publisher=[[Dianne Feinstein]]|location=Washington, D.C.|url=http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7929e244-7e9c-9af9-7126-80d3b0b7f5e8|access-date=June 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120916192713/http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7929e244-7e9c-9af9-7126-80d3b0b7f5e8|archive-date=September 16, 2012|url-status=live|ref=ID}}</ref>

York later confirmed in a press conference on November 9, 2011, that the team would build a new state of the art stadium in Santa Clara in time for the 2014 season. Groundbreaking for the new stadium took place on April 19, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|title=Santa Clara shovels begin end of 49ers in S.F.|first=Gwen|last=Knapp|url=http://www.sfgate.com/49ers/knapp/article/Santa-Clara-shovels-begin-end-of-49ers-in-S-F-3496350.php|newspaper=[[San Francisco Chronicle]]|date=April 20, 2012|access-date=August 12, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811224044/http://www.sfgate.com/49ers/knapp/article/Santa-Clara-shovels-begin-end-of-49ers-in-S-F-3496350.php|archive-date=August 11, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

On May 8, 2013, the NFL's San Francisco 49ers announced that San Francisco-based [[Levi Strauss & Co.]] had purchased the naming rights to their new stadium in Santa Clara. The naming rights deal calls for Levi's to pay $220.3 million to the city of Santa Clara and the 49ers over 20 years, with an option to extend the deal for another five years for around $75 million.<ref name="LeviStrauss">{{cite news|last= Rosenberg|first= Mike|title= Levi's Stadium: 49ers' new Santa Clara home gets a name in $220 million deal|url= http://www.mercurynews.com/southbayfootball/ci_23198944/levis-stadium-49ers-new-santa-clara-home-gets?source=rss|access-date= May 8, 2013|newspaper= San Jose Mercury News|date= May 8, 2013|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131029201451/http://www.mercurynews.com/southbayfootball/ci_23198944/levis-stadium-49ers-new-santa-clara-home-gets?source=rss|archive-date= October 29, 2013|url-status= live}}</ref>

[[Jim Tomsula]] was hired on January 14, 2015, to replace Jim Harbaugh. Subsequently, [[Geep Chryst]] was promoted to offensive coordinator and [[Eric Mangini]] was hired as defensive coordinator. On March 10, 2015, All-Pro linebacker [[Patrick Willis]] announced his retirement from the NFL due to repeated injuries to both feet.<ref>{{cite web|last=Orr|first=Conor|title=Patrick Willis retiring after eight seasons with 49ers|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/patrick-willis-retiring-after-eight-seasons-with-49ers-0ap3000000477349|publisher=National Football League|date=March 10, 2015|access-date=February 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150525183801/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000477349/article/patrick-willis-retiring-after-eight-seasons-with-49ers|archive-date=May 25, 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> A week later on March 17, linebacker [[Chris Borland]], Patrick Willis' presumed replacement, announced his retirement from the NFL due to fears of the effects of head trauma.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hanzus|first=Dan|title=San Francisco 49ers' Chris Borland retiring from NFL|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/san-francisco-49ers-chris-borland-retiring-from-nfl-0ap3000000479460|publisher=National Football League|date=March 16, 2015|access-date=February 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521235149/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000479460/article/san-francisco-49ers-chris-borland-retiring-from-nfl|archive-date=May 21, 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> These two retirements left the 49ers linebackers position group weakened as they headed into an offseason under first year head coach Jim Tomsula. Two other developments during the 49ers off season, the retirements of starters defensive end Justin Smith,<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 18, 2015 |title=Justin Smith Announces Retirement from NFL |url=https://www.49ers.com/news/justin-smith-announces-retirement-from-nfl-15300684 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919113113/https://www.49ers.com/news/justin-smith-announces-retirement-from-nfl-15300684 |archive-date=September 19, 2016 |access-date=February 2, 2022 |website=49ers.com}}</ref> and right tackle Anthony Davis,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/anthony-davis-of-san-francisco-49ers-retires-0ap3000000495822|title=Anthony Davis of San Francisco 49ers retires|website=[[NFL.com]]|access-date=February 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921181956/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000495822/article/anthony-davis-of-san-francisco-49ers-retires|archive-date=September 21, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> and the uncertainty of linebacker Aldon Smith's<ref name="j110">{{cite web | last=Gutierrez | first=Paul | title=49ers release Aldon Smith after arrest on DUI, hit-and-run charges | website=ESPN.com | date=2015-08-07 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/13394571/aldon-smith-released-san-francisco-49ers | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> availability due to his legal issues.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42618319/the_san_francisco_examiner/|title=Time to Save Aldon Smith's Life|last1=Mariotti|first1=Jay|date=August 9, 2015|page=A9|via=Newspapers.com|newspaper=The San Francisco Examiner|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084411/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42618319/the-san-francisco-examiner/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42618936/marshfield_newsherald/|title=49ers Linebacker Smith Suspended Nine Games|last1=McCauley|first1=Janie|newspaper=Marshfield News-Herald|date=August 30, 2014|agency=Associated Press|page=B4|location=Marshfield, Wisconsin|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084411/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42618936/marshfield-news-herald/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The 49ers signed running back [[Reggie Bush]], wide receiver Torrey Smith, and defensive tackle Darnell Dockett.<ref>{{cite web|title=San Francisco 49ers 2015 Roster Movement|url=http://www.49ers.com/news/article-2/San-Francisco-49ers-2015-Roster-Movement-/b300ddad-6b5a-47d2-898a-225d4b87de01|website=49ers.com|publisher=San Francisco 49ers|date=April 30, 2015|access-date=June 3, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521095302/http://www.49ers.com/news/article-2/San-Francisco-49ers-2015-Roster-Movement-/b300ddad-6b5a-47d2-898a-225d4b87de01|archive-date=May 21, 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

Tomsula employed new coaching practices, which included giving his players breaks to check social media during meetings, shorter, easier practices,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cohn |first=Grant |date=November 24, 2015 |title=Is Jim Tomsula worse than the worst head coach of all time? |url=http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/jim-tomsula-mike-singletary-make-call/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160703231440/http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/jim-tomsula-mike-singletary-make-call |archive-date=July 3, 2016 |access-date=July 11, 2016 |website=Inside the 49ers |language=en-US}}</ref> and more days off.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/laces-out/san-francisco-49ers-jim-tomsula-millennials-players-phone-breaks-061815|title=San Francisco 49ers and coach Jim Tomsula cater to millennials, allow players to take phone breaks|last=Parziale|first=James|website=FOX Sports|access-date=May 19, 2016|archive-date=June 11, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611122547/http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/laces-out/san-francisco-49ers-jim-tomsula-millennials-players-phone-breaks-061815|url-status=live}}</ref> The result was one of the worst offenses in team history. Scoring only 238 points,<ref name="pfrninerpage"/> the 49ers struggled to a 5–11 season, with Colin Kaepernick ending the season on injured reserve after being benched. The 49ers would ultimately be eliminated from postseason contention in Week 14 of the [[2015 NFL season|2015 regular season]]. On January 4, 2016, the 49ers fired Tomsula after he led them to a 5–11 record.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/14498497/san-francisco-49ers-fire-jim-tomsula-first-season-coach|title=49ers dismiss Jim Tomsula after 5–11 season – his first|work=ESPN|date=January 4, 2016|access-date=February 2, 2022|first=Paul|last=Gutierrez|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109013343/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/14498497/san-francisco-49ers-fire-jim-tomsula-first-season-coach|archive-date=January 9, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

On January 14, 2016, [[Chip Kelly]] was hired as head coach.<ref name="u873">{{cite web | last=Gutierrez | first=Paul | title=Chip Kelly hired to four-year deal as 49ers coach | website=ESPN.com | date=2016-01-14 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/14569856/san-francisco-49ers-hire-chip-kelly-next-coach | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> Kelly's tenure began with an emphatic 28–0 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on ''Monday Night Football''.<ref name="f084">{{cite web | last1=Navarro | first1=Heather | last2=Ahmed | first2=Shahan | title=LA Rams Lose 28-0 To The 49ers | website=NBC Los Angeles | date=2016-09-12 | url=https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/sports/los-angeles-rams-san-francisco-49ers-opener-levi-stadium/111417/ | access-date=2024-08-30}}</ref> However, the team went on to lose a franchise-record 13 straight games until they narrowly defeated the Rams 22–21 on December 24, 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42614534/the_los_angeles_times/|title=Fourth Quarter Collapse is More of the Same|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|date=December 25, 2016|via=Newspapers.com|page=D4|access-date=January 19, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084411/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42614534/the-los-angeles-times/|url-status=live}}</ref> On October 21, 2016, in an [[ESPN]] ranking of professional sports franchises, the 49ers were ranked the worst franchise in North America.<ref name="c524">{{cite web | last=Wagoner | first=Nick | title=Ultimate Standings: 49ers drop to last place in sports | website=ESPN.com | date=2016-10-21 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/17831701/san-francisco-49ers-drop-another-19-places-last-overall-ultimate-standings | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> The 49ers ended up firing Kelly and Baalke following the conclusion of the regular season, finishing with a 2–14 record.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42613814/napa_valley_register/|title=49ers Fire Kelly, GM Baalke|newspaper=Napa Valley Register|location=Napa, California|page=B2|date=January 2, 2017|agency=Associated Press|via=Newspapers.com|last1=Dubow|first1=Josh|access-date=January 19, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084412/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42613814/napa-valley-register/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2016, Kaepernick started a trend of kneeling during the playing of the national anthem.<ref name=albjour>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42616182/albuquerque_journal/|title=Kaepernick Creates Stir with his Stand|last1=Inman|first1=Cam|page=C8|date=August 28, 2016|newspaper=Albuquerque Journal|location=Albuquerque, New Mexico|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084412/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42616182/albuquerque-journal/|url-status=live}}</ref> Intended to protest the treatment of minorities in the United States,<ref name=albjour /> the trend spread throughout the NFL and stirred political controversy.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42617179/the_indianapolis_star/|title=Vets to NFL Players: Stand for the Anthem|last1=Bongiovanni|first1=Domenica|last2=Martin|first2=Ryan|newspaper=The Indianapolis Star|page=28A|date=November 12, 2017|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084413/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42617179/the-indianapolis-star/|url-status=live}}</ref> President [[Donald Trump]] spoke out against the protests a number of times, and Vice President [[Mike Pence]] walked out of a 49ers game in October 2017 upon seeing players kneel.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-politics/wp/2017/09/24/trump-demands-nfl-teams-fire-or-suspend-players-or-risk-fan-boycott/|title=Players, owners unite as Trump demands NFL 'fire or suspend' players or risk fan boycott|last1=Phillip|first1=Abby|date=September 24, 2017|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|access-date=June 15, 2018|last2=Boren|first2=Cindy|language=en-US|issn=0190-8286|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180615135531/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-politics/wp/2017/09/24/trump-demands-nfl-teams-fire-or-suspend-players-or-risk-fan-boycott/|archive-date=June 15, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="t829">{{Cite web |last=Johnson |first=Alex |date=2017-10-08 |title=VP Pence walks out of football game over players' kneeling during national anthem |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/vp-pence-walks-out-nfl-game-over-players-kneeling-protest-n808866 |access-date=2024-08-05 |website=NBC News|via=Reuters}}</ref>

==== Kyle Shanahan years (2017–present) ====
After hiring [[John Lynch (American football)|John Lynch]] as general manager and [[Kyle Shanahan]] as head coach, the 49ers started the [[2017 San Francisco 49ers season|2017 season]] with nine consecutive losses.<ref name="r109">{{cite web | last=Wagoner | first=Nick | title=Kyle Shanahan takes 49ers head-coach job now that Falcons out | website=ESPN.com | date=2017-02-06 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/18631915/kyle-shanahan-officially-takes-san-francisco-49ers-head-coach-job#:~:text=The%20Niners%20announced%20Monday%20that,new%20general%20manager%20John%20Lynch. | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref name="d835">{{cite web | last=Wagoner | first=Nick | title=49ers' Kyle Shanahan: 'It means a ton' to end losing streak vs. Seahawks | website=ESPN.com | date=2018-12-17 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25553757/means-ton-end-losing-streak-vs-seahawks | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> During this time, they traded for [[New England Patriots]] backup quarterback [[Jimmy Garoppolo]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42620843/the_boston_globe/|title=Another Bewildering Move|last1=Finn|first1=Chad|newspaper=The Boston Globe|location=Boston, Massachusetts|page=C4|date=November 1, 2017|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084413/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42620843/the-boston-globe/|url-status=live}}</ref> After a win over the [[2017 New York Giants season|New York Giants]] and a loss to the [[2017 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]], Garoppolo was named the starter after rookie [[C. J. Beathard]] suffered an injury.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42636957/rutland_daily_herald/|title=49ers Turn to Jimmy at QB|newspaper=Rutland Daily Herald|location=Rutland, Vermont|date=November 30, 2017|page=A9|via=Newspapers.com|last1=Dubow|first1=Josh|agency=Associated Press|access-date=January 20, 2020|archive-date=December 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211218084425/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/42636957/rutland-daily-herald/|url-status=live}}</ref> The 49ers won their last five games with Garoppolo at the helm and finished the season 6–10. After the season, the 49ers signed Garoppolo to a five-year, $137.5 million contract extension. This made him the highest-paid player in NFL history on a per-year basis at the time.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.businessinsider.com/jimmy-garoppolo-contract-highest-paid-player-2018-2 | title=Jimmy Garoppolo to sign $137 million contract and become the highest-paid player in the NFL after 5 breakout games | first=Tyler | last=Lauletta | date=February 8, 2018 | work=[[Business Insider]] | access-date=December 20, 2019 | archive-date=December 21, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191221052948/https://www.businessinsider.com/jimmy-garoppolo-contract-highest-paid-player-2018-2 | url-status=live }}</ref> During the third-week matchup between the 49ers and [[Kansas City Chiefs]], [[Jimmy Garoppolo]] tore his ACL, and was ruled out for the rest of the [[2018 NFL season|2018 season]].<ref>{{cite web | title=Jimmy Garoppolo suffers season-ending torn ACL | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/jimmy-garoppolo-suffers-season-ending-torn-acl-0ap3000000966222 | first=Marc | last=Sessler | website=NFL.com | date=September 24, 2018 | access-date=February 2, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181018130806/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000966222/article/jimmy-garoppolo-suffers-seasonending-torn-acl | archive-date=October 18, 2018 | url-status=live}}</ref> The 49ers struggled to a 4–12 record in the 2018 season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2018 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2018.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

The 49ers started the 2019 season with an 8–0 record.<ref name="m982">{{cite web | title=By The Numbers: Behind the 49ers Perfect 8-0 Start | website=49ers.com| date=2019-11-07 | url=https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-stats-8-0-start | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> This was the first time they had gone 8–0 since [[1990 San Francisco 49ers season|1990]], where they started the season 10–0 and eventually lost in the [[1990–91 NFL playoffs#NFC Championship: New York Giants 15, San Francisco 49ers 13|NFC Championship Game]]. In Week 7, the 49ers defeated the [[Washington Redskins]] at [[FedExField]] in a game referred to as a Mud Bowl with a final score of 9–0. This was the first time the 49ers shut out an opponent since Week 1 of the [[2016 San Francisco 49ers season|2016 season]], versus the [[Los Angeles Rams]]. In Week 8, the 49ers defeated the [[Carolina Panthers]], 51–13, making it the 12th time the team has scored 50 points or more against opponents in the regular season. The 49ers' undefeated record was broken in Week 10 with an overtime loss against the [[Seattle Seahawks]], giving them an 8–1 record. They went on to beat the Arizona Cardinals, the Green Bay Packers, and the New Orleans Saints, while losing to the Baltimore Ravens by a last-second field goal, dropping them to 11–2. The 49ers then lost their next game in the final seconds to the Atlanta Falcons.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/game?gameId=401128108|title=Falcons vs. 49ers – Game Summary – December 15, 2019 – ESPN|website=ESPN|language=en|access-date=December 18, 2019|archive-date=December 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191217073004/https://www.espn.com/nfl/game?gameId=401128108|url-status=live}}</ref> The 49ers defeated the Los Angeles Rams 34–31 and advanced to 12–3, eliminating the Rams from playoff contention in the process.

On December 29, 2019, the 49ers defeated the Seahawks 26–21 in the Week 17 regular-season finale thereby clinching the NFC West in addition to the number one seed for the first time since 1997.<ref name="u019">{{cite web | last=Panacy | first=Peter | title=49ers survive wild finish vs. Seahawks, clinch NFC West with 26-21 win | website=49ers Webzone | date=2019-12-29 | url=https://www.49erswebzone.com/articles/132641-49ers-survive-wild-finish-seahawks-clinch-west-26-21/ | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> In their first playoff game since 2013, against the Minnesota Vikings, they dominated the Vikings, defeating them 27–10.<ref name="l690">{{cite web | last=Patra | first=Kevin | title=49ers knock out Vikings, 27-10, in NFC Divisional Round | website=NFL.com | date=2020-01-11 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/49ers-knock-out-vikings-27-10-in-nfc-divisional-round-0ap3000001095918 | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> This victory ensured them a spot in the NFC Championship game, in Levi's Stadium, where they played the Green Bay Packers. On January 19, 2020, they beat the Packers 37–20, advancing to their first Super Bowl since 2012.<ref name="k036">{{cite web | last=Inman | first=Cam | title=49ers 37, Packers 20: Mostert runs wild in NFC Championship win | website=The Mercury News | date=2020-01-20 | url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/01/19/49ers-34-packers-20-mostert-runs-wild-in-nfc-championship-win/ | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> The 49ers also became the first team to reach the [[Super Bowl]] following four straight seasons with 10+ losses. In [[Super Bowl LIV]], the 49ers led the Kansas City Chiefs 20–10 with seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter but lost the game by the final score of 31–20, resulting in the Chiefs' first championship victory since 1969.<ref name="j674">{{cite web | title=Kansas City Chiefs rally to beat San Francisco 49ers 31-20 in Super Bowl, franchise's first championship in 50 years | website=AP News | date=2020-02-03 | url=https://apnews.com/article/4e2b6d350723336289026a9b2329f2a3 | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

The 49ers had a 6–10 record in 2020, usually attributed to the number of injuries on the team.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2020.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kang |first=Jas |date=2021-03-23 |title=2020 49ers had second-most injuries of any NFL team over past 20 years |url=https://www.ninersnation.com/2021/3/23/22345569/49ers-2020-season-injuries-second-most-in-nfl-since-2001 |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Niners Nation |language=en}}</ref>

In 2021, they had a 10–7 record and advanced to the playoffs as the #6-seed.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2021 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2021/index.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> On January 16, 2022, they defeated the Dallas Cowboys 23–17 in the Wild Card Round.<ref name="a720">{{cite web | last=Dixon | first=Schuyler | title=49ers hang on over Cowboys 23-17 in chaotic wild-card finish | website=AP News | date=2022-01-17 | url=https://apnews.com/article/nfl-sports-entertainment-san-francisco-49ers-jimmy-garoppolo-681aa969ae5e14e1c164ed3caf109f6f | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> The next week, in the Divisional Round, they defeated the Green Bay Packers 13–10, the winning margin from a field goal on the game's last play.<ref name="c551">{{cite web | last=Shpigel | first=Ben | title=How the 49ers Beat the Packers to Advance to the NFC Championship | website=The New York Times | date=2022-01-23 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/22/sports/football/packers-49ers-score.html | access-date=2024-08-05}}</ref> On January 30, they faced the Los Angeles Rams for the NFC championship, where the Rams overcame a ten-point deficit in the fourth quarter to win 20–17, assisted in part by a costly Jimmy Garoppolo interception and a critical interception dropped by [[Jaquiski Tartt]].<ref name="o552">{{cite web | last=Shook | first=Nick | title=49ers safety Jaquiski Tartt has 'no excuses' for dropped interception in loss to Rams | website=NFL.com | date=2022-01-31 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/49ers-safety-jaquiski-tartt-no-excuses-for-dropped-interception-in-loss-to-rams | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

In 2022, they overcame their 3–4 status at the beginning of the season and vaulted into 13–4, giving them the division title.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2022 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2022.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> [[Trey Lance]], who was the original starter for the Niners, was injured within the first three games and replaced by Garoppolo.<ref name="o591">{{cite web | last=McCarriston | first=Shanna | title=49ers' Trey Lance out for 2022 season after breaking his ankle in Week 2; undergoes successful surgery | website=CBSSports.com | date=2022-09-18 | url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/49ers-trey-lance-out-for-2022-season-after-breaking-his-ankle-in-week-2-undergoes-successful-surgery/ | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> However, after an injury during a game against the [[Miami Dolphins]], Garoppolo was replaced by third-string quarterback [[Brock Purdy]], who became a star within the team, winning all of his starts with 13 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in the final 5 games to clinch the NFC 2nd seed and a spot in the playoffs.<ref name="t456">{{cite web | last=Edholm | first=Eric | title=Niners QB Jimmy Garoppolo suffered broken foot vs. Dolphins, will miss rest of season | website=NFL.com | date=2022-12-05 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/jimmy-garoppolo-suffered-broken-foot-vs-dolphins-will-miss-rest-of-season#:~:text=San%20Francisco%2049ers%20quarterback%20Jimmy,head%20coach%20Kyle%20Shanahan%20announced. | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref name="l502">{{cite web | last=Reisman | first=Jeremy | title=How Brock Purdy went from NFL's 'Mr. Irrelevant' to leading the Niners in the playoffs | website=SBNation.com | date=2023-01-14 | url=https://www.sbnation.com/2023/1/14/23552111/how-brock-purdy-mr-irrelevant-49ers-quarterback-playoff-contender | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> In the Wild Card Round, the 49ers defeated the Seahawks 41–23.<ref name="l096">{{cite web | last=Dubow | first=Josh | title=Purdy's 4 TDs lead 49ers past Seahawks 41-23 in playoffs | website=AP News | date=2023-01-15 | url=https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-49ers-seattle-seahawks-nfl-sports-playoffs-6a373bf9d2283eb2245791dc1828780e | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> In the Divisional Round, they defeated the Dallas Cowboys 19–12.<ref name="m030">{{cite web | last=Inman | first=Cam | title=Instant analysis of 49ers' 19-12 playoff win over the Dallas Cowboys | website=The Mercury News | date=2023-01-23 | url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/01/22/instant-analysis-of-49ers-19-12-playoff-win-over-the-dallas-cowboys/ | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> However, in the NFC Conference Championship Round, both Purdy and fourth-string quarterback [[Josh Johnson (quarterback)|Josh Johnson]] suffered injuries. The 49ers were mostly unable to acquire offensive points as they lost 31–7 to the [[Philadelphia Eagles]], who would move on to lose to the Kansas City Chiefs in [[Super Bowl LVII]].<ref name="r353">{{cite web | title=Eagles romp past 49ers 31-7 for NFC title, will face either Kansas City or Cincinnati in Super Bowl | website=AP News | date=2023-01-29 | url=https://apnews.com/e19bc2ea0bd069eb5526509d43514cc5 | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2022 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2022/index.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

This was the last season for both Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo, who were traded to the Dallas Cowboys and signed by the Las Vegas Raiders, respectively, making Brock Purdy the titular quarterback for the 2023 season.<ref name="w865">{{cite web | last=Barnwell | first=Bill | title=Why did Cowboys trade for Trey Lance? How 49ers got it wrong | website=ESPN.com | date=2023-08-26 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38253859/trey-lance-future-best-nfl-team-trade-fits-how-49ers-got-wrong-next | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref name="a609">{{cite web | last=Edholm | first=Eric | title=Las Vegas Raiders signing QB Jimmy Garoppolo to three-year, $72.75 million contract | website=NFL.com | date=2023-03-13 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/raiders-sign-quarterback-jimmy-garoppolo | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> They opened the season with a five-game winning streak, but then lost to the Cleveland Browns off a last-minute missed field goal, setting up a 3-game losing streak heading into the bye week.<ref name="i090">{{cite web | last=Trotter | first=Jake | title=Underdog Browns find 'a way to win' vs. undefeated 49ers | website=ESPN.com | date=2023-10-15 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38667850/browns-pull-first-double-digit-comeback-win-2018-49ers | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> After the bye week, the team went on a 6-win streak and clinched the NFC West after beating the Arizona Cardinals 45–29.<ref name="r890">{{cite web | last=Gordon | first=Grant | title=Niners clinch NFC West repeat with win over Cardinals | website=NFL.com | date=2023-12-18 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/niners-clinch-nfc-west-repeat-with-win-over-cardinals#:~:text=San%20Francisco's%2045%2D29%20win,their%20sixth%20straight%20game%20Sunday. | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> Two weeks later, the 49ers clinched the 1st seed in the NFC by beating the Washington Commanders, combined with losses from the Detroit Lions and the Philadelphia Eagles, ending the regular season with a record of 12–5.<ref name="c903">{{cite web | last=Kownack | first=Bobby | title=Niners clinch NFC's No. 1 seed with win over Commanders, Eagles' loss to Cardinals | website=NFL.com | date=2023-12-31 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/niners-clinch-nfc-s-no-1-seed-with-win-over-commanders | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

In the postseason, they defeated the [[2023 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] in a close game 24–21 to reach the NFC Championship Game for the third consecutive season, and their fourth in five seasons.<ref name="g178">{{cite web | last=Williams | first=Charean | title=49ers score late to stave off Packers' upset efforts, 24-21 | website=NBC Sports | date=2024-01-21 | url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/49ers-score-late-to-stave-off-packers-upset-efforts-24-21 | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> In the NFC Championship Game, after being down 24–7 at halftime against the [[2023 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]], the 49ers rallied off a 27–7 run to win 34–31, allowing them to reach [[Super Bowl LVIII]], which was a rematch of Super Bowl LIV with the [[2023 Kansas City Chiefs season|Chiefs]].<ref name="y369">{{cite web | last=Lombardi | first=David | title=49ers' resounding halftime reversal against the Lions connected their past and present | website=New York Times | date=2024-01-29 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5234582/2024/01/29/49ers-nfc-championship-comeback-lions/#:~:text=There%20was%20no%20time%20for,deficit%20in%20a%20conference%20championship. | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> The 49ers would lose the game 25–22 in the second-ever Super Bowl to go into overtime.<ref name="s032">{{cite web | last=Breech | first=John | title=Super Bowl heads to overtime for just the second time in NFL history: 49ers-Chiefs play under new rules | website=CBSSports.com | date=2024-02-11 | url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/super-bowl-heads-to-overtime-for-just-the-second-time-in-nfl-history-49ers-chiefs-play-under-new-rules/ | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref name="v015">{{cite web | last=Maaddi | first=Rob | title=Patrick Mahomes rallies the Chiefs to second straight Super Bowl title, 25-22 over 49ers in overtime | website=AP News | date=2024-02-12 | url=https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-2024-score-chiefs-49ers-49b5dca51c05ab0f259cef0d7da76c2d | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 San Francisco 49ers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2023.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>

In March 2024, Jed York acquired enough of his mother's equity in the 49ers to become principal owner, though his parents stayed on as co-chairs.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcsportsbayarea.com/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/jed-york-49ers-ownership-decision-reason/1717527/|title=York shares reason for shift in 49ers' principal ownership|author1=Matt Maiocco|publisher=[[NBC Sports Bay Area]]|date=March 27, 2024}}</ref> In a 2024 season marred by injuries, the 49ers finished with a 6–11 record.<ref name="d368">{{Cite web |last=Maiocco |first=Matt |date=2025-01-07 |title=Identifying what went wrong for 49ers in disastrous 2024 season |url=https://www.nbcsportsbayarea.com/nfl/san-francisco-49ers/what-went-wrong-disastrous-2024-season/1819539/ |access-date=2025-01-29 |website=NBC Sports Bay Area &amp; California}}</ref>