Navy SEALs enlisted by San Francisco 49ers to aid in recovery from underwhelming 2024 campaign
Kyle Shanahan knew his 2024 San Francisco 49ers were in trouble from the get-go. Last season's disappointing 6-11 record and bottom-place finish in the division proved it. To shake off the doldrums, Shanahan's 49ers made major roster moves, including the trade of Deebo Samuel and releasing Javon Hargrave, along with controversial linebacker Leonard Floyd. But in an attempt to regain their Super Bowl form, the 49ers took unconventional measures.
During the offseason, they subjected themselves to Navy SEAL-style training sessions for four days, which included a hefty dose of mental conditioning to go along with their usual offseason workouts. Armed with automatic weapons and scuba gear? Not quite, but their mental fortitude got a major boost nonetheless.
Quarterback Brock Purdy described the experience as "pretty special" and "eye-opening," sharing that hearing the stories of retired SEALs and the challenges they faced as a team helped them find a renewed sense of discipline and focus.
This isn't the first time the 49ers have opted for SEAL training under Shanahan's reign. Since 2017, SEAL Team retirees have been called upon to help instill strength, mental fortitude, and unwavering resolution among the players.
Other NFL teams have turned to military figures, like retired Vice Admiral Mike Boyle's visit to the Jaguars' practice session, to prepare for the season. In 2023, Dan Quinn brought in SEALs to speak to his Washington Commanders players and help set the tone for his new team. The Commanders went on to defy expectations and reach the NFC Championship game in Quinn's first season.
Shanahan expects this coming season to be nothing short of different, emphasizing the importance of newcomers learning from the veterans and bringing an improved mindset to the table when they return from the offseason. And with their newfound SEAL-inspired grit, the Niners may just be on their way to reclaiming their Super Bowl glory.
Purdy is optimistic about the impact these sessions will have on the team. "We had some Navy SEALs come in and talk about having a standard and a culture," Purdy shared. "And I think the conversations and events we did together were cool. It helped us understand what it takes to be a part of a team and represent not just this team, but the entire organization." Only time will tell if this unique approach will make a difference for the 49ers in the upcoming season, but solid teamwork is a certainty.
In an effort to boost their mental fortitude and recover their Super Bowl form, the San Francisco 49ers underwent Navy SEAL-style training, much like what the Washington Commanders experienced under Dan Quinn in 2023. Brock Purdy, the quarterback, described these sessions as "pretty special" and "eye-opening," believing they helped the team understand what it takes to be a part of a winning team, representing not just themselves, but the entire organization.
