The San Francisco 49ers’ preseason campaign kicked off with a resounding thud, as they suffered a decisive defeat against the Denver Broncos. While preseason games are often viewed as opportunities for evaluation and experimentation, the performance raised some eyebrows and sparked debate amongst fans and analysts alike. To dissect the game and identify the key takeaways, we've turned to Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades, which offer a detailed assessment of each player's contribution.

Let's start with the bright spots. Several 49ers players earned high marks for their performance, demonstrating potential and reinforcing their roles within the team. Conversely, some struggled to find their footing, leading to lower grades and raising concerns about their impact moving forward. Here’s a breakdown of the best and worst PFF grades from the 49ers’ preseason opener, offering a deeper look into the team's strengths and weaknesses.

Top Performers: Shining Stars in a Rough Night

Trent Williams (Offensive Tackle): It's no surprise to see Williams at the top of the list. The veteran tackle consistently earns elite grades, and this game was no different. His performance was instrumental in protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes. PFF graded him exceptionally high, highlighting his dominance in pass protection and run blocking. His experience and skill are invaluable to the 49ers' offensive line.

Fred Warner (Linebacker): Warner continues to be a defensive anchor for the 49ers. He showcased his exceptional instincts and athleticism, consistently making impactful plays. His coverage skills were on display, and he was a force in stopping the run. Warner's leadership and talent are crucial to the team’s defensive success.

George Kittle (Tight End): Despite limited snaps, Kittle made a significant impact with his receiving ability. His route running and ability to gain separation were evident, and he proved to be a reliable target for the quarterback. His presence alone elevates the 49ers’ passing game.

Areas of Concern: Players Needing to Step Up

Brock Purdy (Quarterback): While it's just one preseason game, Purdy’s performance drew some criticism. He struggled with accuracy at times and faced pressure from the Broncos' defensive line. The turnovers were a major concern. Purdy will need to improve his decision-making and consistency as he prepares to lead the 49ers’ offense.

Samuel Womack III (Cornerback): Womack had a difficult night covering receivers, allowing several completions and drawing penalties. His struggles highlight the depth concerns at the cornerback position. He’ll need to show significant improvement in the coming weeks to secure his roster spot.

Several Offensive Linemen (Beyond Williams): While Williams shone, other offensive linemen struggled with consistency, allowing pressures and failing to create clear running lanes. This needs to be addressed quickly as the regular season approaches. The offensive line's overall performance was a major factor in the team’s struggles.

Looking Ahead

The 49ers’ preseason opener exposed some weaknesses and highlighted areas where the team needs to improve. While these grades offer valuable insights, it’s important to remember that it’s just one game. The team has time to address these issues and refine their performance before the regular season begins. The next few preseason games will be crucial for evaluating players and determining the final roster composition. The 49ers faithful will be watching closely to see how the team responds to this early setback.