49ers' hot start ranks among the NFL's best since 1977

The San Francisco 49ers have started their season with a remarkable 4-0 record, a feat that is not uncommon for the franchise but whose underlying statistics are noteworthy. According to ESPN's Aaron Schatz, the team has a 54.8 percent DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average), ranking them 11th-best among all teams since 1977.

Only ten teams have outperformed this benchmark in the first four weeks of a season, placing San Francisco alongside historically great squads such as the 2007 New England Patriots, the 1991 Washington team, the 1999 Los Angeles Rams, the 1997 Denver Broncos, and the 1996 Green Bay Packers.

The 2019 49ers also join this list with a 55.9 percent DVOA through four games, ultimately reaching the Super Bowl. In addition to their strong performance, the 49ers' passing offense is particularly impressive, with a 89.4 percent DVOA, the third-best since 1977. Only the 1999 Washington team and the 1998 Broncos had better marks. This performance can be attributed to Brock Purdy, who has been nearly flawless, completing 69.9 percent of his passes for 1,007 yards, 11 touchdowns, and one interception with no sacks.

However, despite their stellar start, the 49ers face potential risks. A 4-0 record does not guarantee a championship, as only nine out of the 20 best DVOA teams since 1977 ultimately won the Super Bowl. Of those, only three did not advance past the divisional round. Therefore, while the 49ers' performance suggests a successful season, injuries could still pose a threat.

The team has already faced injuries on both sides of the ball, but backups have stepped up, and depth has not been a significant issue. For now, the 49ers are on an unprecedented pace that indicates a promising 2026 campaign.