Kyle Shanahan is navigating a high-stakes offseason with the San Francisco 49ers, and he's not shy about showing loyalty to his team and former colleagues. Amidst the buzz surrounding wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, Shanahan is keeping his cards close to his chest.
After the big signing of Mike Evans, speculation is swirling about Aiyuk's future with the team. Shanahan has made it clear that while they hope to get something valuable in return, they're in no rush to make a hasty decision.
The plan? Wait patiently for the right offer to come along.
Shanahan's protective nature isn't limited to his players; it extends to his coaching tree as well. Recently, he gave a glowing endorsement of Robert Saleh, who was appointed head coach of the Tennessee Titans.
Shanahan praised Saleh as one of the league's top coaches, suggesting that his previous stint with the Jets wasn't the fairest shake. By emphasizing Saleh's new opportunity, Shanahan made it clear that he believes his former defensive coordinator is now in a much better position to succeed.
However, when the conversation shifted to the NFL's international expansion, Shanahan's tone changed to one of frustration. The 49ers are set to kick off the 2026 season against the Rams in Melbourne, Australia.
While the league's global ambitions are understandable, Shanahan is more concerned about the practical challenges. With the 49ers projected to travel over 38,100 miles this season, potentially setting an NFL record, the 19-hour time difference for the Australia game is a logistical headache.
Shanahan's focus is squarely on the physical toll this travel schedule could take on his team, rather than the spectacle of the international stage.