The 2024 NFL season surprised fantasy football enthusiasts, particularly at the wide receiver position. While the performance of top receivers like Ja'Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Amon-Ra St. Brown was anticipated, the breakout seasons of rookies such as Brian Thomas Jr. and Ladd McConkey certainly raised eyebrows. Brian Thomas Jr. emerged as the top rookie with impressive stats, finishing as WR4 overall. Similarly, McConkey's success with the Los Angeles Chargers demonstrated the depth of this year's rookie class. Other unexpected performances came from Jerry Jeudy, who revitalized his career with the Cleveland Browns, and Courtland Sutton, who thrived under rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Meanwhile, players like Jauan Jennings and Alec Pierce capitalized on increased opportunities, showcasing the changing dynamics at wide receiver.

The San Francisco 49ers face a pivotal offseason following the trade of Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders, a move that solidifies wide receiver as a key need. General Manager John Lynch expressed the emotional difficulty in parting with Samuel, whom he called one of his favorite draft picks. The 49ers now turn their focus to rebuilding their receiving corps, already eyeing potential free agency targets while also considering a draft strategy that could include notable receivers. The development of Brandon Aiyuk, recovering from injury, becomes crucial as San Francisco evaluates their offensive lineup.

Brandon Aiyuk, who signed a significant contract extension, is expected to take on a leading role upon his return. Lynch indicated Aiyuk's rehabilitation is going well, but a definitive timeline remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Jauan Jennings, coming off a breakout season, is slated to play a critical role in the interim. The 49ers' depth at receiver, including emerging talents like Ricky Pearsall, adds a layer of intrigue to their offseason plans.

The 2024 fantasy football season saw several undrafted players elevate their teams, leading to their inclusion in the All-Waiver Wire Team. Baker Mayfield emerged as a standout quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, climbing to QB3 status despite significant injuries among his top receivers.

Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings proved doubters wrong, finishing as QB9 and showcasing consistent performance, particularly during the fantasy playoffs. The running back position saw Bucky Irving of Tampa Bay excel, transforming the Buccaneers' rushing game.

Tyrone Tracy Jr. from the New York Giants and Kareem Hunt from the Kansas City Chiefs also shone brightly, with Hunt making a remarkable return to relevance after being off a roster at the start of the season.

Wide receivers Darnell Mooney and Jauan Jennings provided vital contributions, while tight ends Jonnu Smith and Zach Ertz outperformed expectations in their respective offenses. As a result, these players emerged as key waiver wire additions, greatly impacting the fantasy landscape.

The Arizona Cardinals concluded their season on a high note, defeating the San Francisco 49ers 47-24, thanks in large part to Kyler Murray's stellar performance. Murray threw for 242 yards and four touchdowns, including a critical 12-yard pass to rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. in the fourth quarter, showcasing the potential for next season. Harrison, the No. 4 overall pick, finished the season with eight touchdown catches, tying a franchise rookie record.

The Cardinals improved to 8-9, winning four games more than last year but still falling short of the playoffs for the third consecutive season. Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed pride in his team's resilience against a tough opponent like the 49ers.

The San Francisco 49ers concluded their disappointing 2024 NFL season with a heavy 47-24 defeat against the Arizona Cardinals. Their final record of 6-11 left them at the bottom of the NFC West, leading to the team holding the 11th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Young players faced injury setbacks, as starting safety Malik Mustapha and backup running back Isaac Guerendo both exited with knee injuries during the game. Additionally, wide receiver Jauan Jennings was ejected for back-to-back penalties, falling short of a 1,000-yard season after finishing with 975 yards.