The 49ers didn’t play in Week 9, but they dropped one spot in the USA TODAY NFL power rankings because of a big-time trade deadline move. San Francisco dropped from No. 7 to No. 8 in the rankings after the Dolphins leapt over them and into the top-five following their acquisition of defensive end Bradley Chubb.
There could be some acquisitions coming in the Bay Area as well though. The 49ers opened practice windows for running back Elijah Mitchell, linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair and offensive lineman Colton McKivitz on Monday. They should also see the returns of defensive linemen Javon Kinlaw and Arik Armstead at some point following the bye. A healthy 49ers club could be primed to make a significant run up the rankings. Via USA TODAY’s Nate Davis:
