The 49ers are flipping the script like Space Jam remixing NBA legends—except this time, it’s Kyle Shanahan’s coaching staff getting a blockbuster reboot. With 14 coaching moves announced February 25, the Niners are betting big on fresh faces and familiar names. But Shanahan’s decision for the NFL Combine? That’s the twist even Stranger Things wouldn’t see coming.

The Niners unveiled a coaching carousel headlined by Gus Bradley (Assistant Head Coach of Defense) and Klay Kubiak (Offensive Coordinator). Kubiak, son of ex-49ers QB coach Gary Kubiak, helped Brock Purdy shatter records in 2023, including 4,280 passing yards—a franchise high. Meanwhile, Bradley, architect of Seattle’s “Legion of Boom,” aims to revamp a defense that ranked eighth in total yards allowed (317.4) last season. But Shanahan’s absence at the Combine, confirmed by NBC’s Matt Maiocco, is raising eyebrows.

While John Lynch will scout prospects, Shanahan’s tape-over-tanlines philosophy risks missing intangibles—like how a QB handles a botched drill. Remember JaMarcus Russell? Dude aced the Combine. Meanwhile, the staff overhaul includes promotions for Leonard Hankerson (WRs/Passing Game Specialist).

Hankerson’s unit ranked first in yards per catch (12.8) since 2022, and Chris Foerster (Assistant Head Coach/OL), Trent Williams’ secret sauce. But with Purdy’s $200M extension looming, can Shanahan afford to skip live evaluations?

Well, every pick matters when your window’s closing. As the Niners chase their sixth Lombardi, Shanahan’s gamble echoes Moneyball—but will it play like Draft Day or Waterboy?

This story is unfolding—stay locked in for the latest.