49ers’ Coaching Search Faces Twists and Turns Amid Cowboys’ Offseason Changes
A Double-Sided Challenge
The San Francisco 49ers are navigating an offseason of significant change as they search for new defensive and special teams coordinators. Complicating their efforts is the evolving situation with their historic rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, whose recent coaching shakeup could directly impact the 49ers’ plans.
Robert Saleh: The Front-Runner with Options
Former 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh is widely considered the leading candidate to return to the position he held from 2017 to 2020. However, Saleh’s name is also being circulated in head coaching circles. He has already interviewed with the Jacksonville Jaguars and is scheduled to meet with the Las Vegas Raiders this week.
The situation becomes more complex with reports from NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport indicating that the Cowboys have requested an interview with Saleh for their head coaching vacancy, following their decision to part ways with Mike McCarthy. If the Cowboys proceed with Saleh, it could further delay the 49ers’ efforts to secure him, potentially forcing them to pivot to other options.
The Importance of Backup Plans
While Saleh’s potential return would be a significant win for the 49ers, the uncertainty surrounding his availability highlights the importance of exploring alternative candidates. So far, the 49ers have interviewed only one external candidate, DeShea Townsend, the Detroit Lions’ defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach. However, Townsend won’t be available for any potential hiring discussions until Detroit’s playoff run concludes.
Given the high stakes, the 49ers may need to expand their pool of candidates to avoid being left in limbo should Saleh land a head coaching position elsewhere.
A Special Opportunity for Special Teams
On the special teams front, the Cowboys’ decision to part ways with McCarthy has created an unexpected opportunity for the 49ers. John “Bones” Fassel, one of the league’s premier special teams coordinators, is now available for interviews.
Fassel led the Cowboys to an impressive third-place finish in special teams DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average) in 2024, showcasing his expertise in maximizing this critical phase of the game. For a 49ers unit that ranked a dismal 31st in special teams DVOA last season, Fassel’s addition could be transformative.
A Competitive Search
The 49ers have already interviewed several candidates for the special teams coordinator role, including Jett Modkins, Chris Banjo, and Chris Tabor. However, Fassel’s availability elevates the stakes and adds a level of urgency to the process.
The Cowboys’ Dual Impact
The Cowboys’ offseason moves could significantly influence the 49ers in two key ways:
- Their pursuit of Robert Saleh for the head coaching role could complicate the 49ers’ plans to bring him back as defensive coordinator.
- The availability of John Fassel presents the 49ers with a unique opportunity to address their special teams struggles.
What Lies Ahead
The 49ers’ ability to navigate these challenges will hinge on their flexibility and foresight. Whether they succeed in securing Saleh, Fassel, or other top candidates, the team must remain proactive to ensure they emerge from this offseason with the leadership needed to maintain their status as one of the league’s elite franchises.
As the dominoes fall, all eyes will be on the 49ers and Cowboys, two storied rivals whose paths are crossing in unexpected ways during this pivotal offseason.
