5 NFL teams who don't need the preseason to be ready for 2020

5 NFL teams who don’t need the preseason to be ready for 2020

KANSAS CITY, MO - SEPTEMBER 22: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs to the outside against outside linebacker Matt Judon #99 of the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at Arrowhead Stadium on September 22, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images) /

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San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

3. The San Francisco 49ers don’t need the NFL preseason

Last year’s NFC champion has had to contend with very little turnover this offseason. On the offensive side of the ball, the only new projected starters are veteran left tackle Trent Williams and rookie wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. On defense, rookie first-rounder Javon Kinlaw will take over for DeForest Buckner. Aside from those players, the San Francisco 49ers’ starting lineup will look nearly identical to their 2019 iteration.

Now, Deebo Samuel‘s offseason injury could keep him out to start the season, so Aiyuk may be forced into a larger role than desired. Nonetheless, Kyle Shanahan’s offense flows through the run game and George Kittle, so I don’t expect Aiyuk will immediately take on the responsibilities of a WR1.

Other wide receivers like Kendrick Bourne, Jalen Hurd, and Dante Pettis could see more playing time as Aiyuk adjusts to Shanahan’s system.

Kinlaw should have little trouble adjusting, as he will be playing next to elite pass rushers like Nick Bosa, Solomon Thomas, and Arik Armstead. He’ll have a great deal of help along the line and little trouble winning his matchups.

These San Francisco 49ers should be prepared to go into their Week 1 matchup without worrying about a lack of chemistry.

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