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Should 49ers sacrifice No. 1 seed in the name of entering playoffs healthy?

The 49ers are in a good position to make the playoffs right now. Should they prioritize health over their seeding in the NFC?

By Nick San Miguel · Niner Noise

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 9:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Niner Noise considers whether the San Francisco 49ers should prioritize player health over securing the NFC's No. 1 seed.
The 49ers lead the NFC West with a 6-1 record entering Week 9 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The writer notes that managing ailments for veterans like Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel may require sacrificing top playoff seeding.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Nick San Miguel questions whether the San Francisco 49ers should prioritize player health over securing the NFC's No. 1 seed. With the team sitting at 6-1 following their bye week, San Francisco faces a dilemma regarding whether to manage the workloads of key veterans like Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel to ensure postseason availability.

San Miguel notes that while home-field advantage and a first-round bye were vital in previous Super Bowl runs under Kyle Shanahan, resting players might be preferable. Contending with the Chicago Bears for the top seed could require 13 or 14 wins, forcing tough decisions between pushing for home field or accepting a lower seed.

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Should 49ers sacrifice No. 1 seed in the name of entering playoffs healthy?

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