The San Francisco 49ers are in the midst of a pivotal decision as they search for their next defensive coordinator, and the shortlist is starting to take shape. With Robert Saleh long gone to the AFC, head coach Kyle Shanahan is turning to some familiar faces in hopes of keeping the Niners' defense among the NFL's elite.
According to reports, the 49ers have interviewed three external candidates so far: Raheem Morris, Joe Woods, and Gus Bradley. Each brings a unique résumé to the table - and just as importantly, each has a history with Shanahan that could influence the final call.
Let’s start with Raheem Morris. His connection to Shanahan goes way back - all the way to their days together in Tampa Bay during the 2004-05 seasons.
That bond only grew stronger during their time in Washington and later in Atlanta. Morris is known for his leadership and adaptability, and Shanahan’s deep respect for him is well documented.
That kind of trust matters when you’re handing someone the keys to a defense that’s expected to contend for a Super Bowl.
Then there’s Joe Woods, another name that should ring a bell for 49ers fans. Woods was part of the coaching staff during the team’s 2019 Super Bowl run, serving as defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator.
Since then, he’s taken on defensive coordinator roles in Cleveland and New Orleans. Woods has built a strong reputation as one of the league’s premier secondary coaches - remember, he helped guide the Denver Broncos’ dominant defense to a Super Bowl 50 title.
There’s even some buzz that his interview might not have been solely for the coordinator role - if Shanahan already has a frontrunner in mind, Woods could be in play for a return to his old post coaching the secondary.
And then there’s Gus Bradley, currently the 49ers’ associate head coach. His name has been floated as the potential favorite for the job.
Bradley has a deep résumé, including head coaching experience and a long track record of building physical, disciplined defenses. He spoke earlier this week about the opportunity in front of Shanahan - framing it as a chance to evolve rather than default to the obvious.
That’s an interesting comment coming from someone widely considered to be the internal frontrunner.
It’s worth noting that by interviewing Morris and Woods - both minority candidates - the 49ers have already satisfied the NFL’s Rooney Rule requirements. That doesn’t mean the search is over, but it does suggest the team is narrowing in on its decision. Bradley may be the presumed favorite for now, but with Shanahan’s deep ties to all three candidates, nothing is set in stone just yet.
The 49ers’ defense has been the backbone of their recent success, and whoever steps into the coordinator role will inherit a unit loaded with talent and expectations. Whether Shanahan leans on a trusted veteran like Bradley, rekindles a working relationship with Morris, or brings back a familiar face in Woods, the decision will shape the identity of this team going forward.