SEATTLE – This is where it all starts for the 49ers, whose ultimate finish line is back home at Levi’s Stadium, site of Super Bowl LX in five long months.

If their 30-year Lombardi Trophy drought finally ends, it will come in a surprising fashion through growing pains and other adversity.

After all, the 49ers finished in last place last season amid health woes. Cue the good news: at least one NFL cellar dweller in 26 of the past 29 seasons has rebounded to make the playoffs the following season.

“I do think we have a team that can compete,” left tackle Trent Williams said, “but like every year, Week 1 is where dreams and reality meet.”

Last season evolved into a 6-11 record beneath a year-long black cloud of injuries, personal traumas, fourth-quarter collapses, defensive deficiencies,

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