Santa Clara, CA – San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan put an end to swirling speculation today, March 21, 2025, firmly denying rumors that he was poised to leave the Bay Area to take over as head coach of the New York Jets. The 45-year-old mastermind behind the 49ers’ recent success addressed the chatter head-on during a press conference following a team practice, quashing the hopes of Jets fans and reaffirming his commitment to the Niners amid a pivotal offseason.
The rumors began circulating earlier this week on X and various sports talk shows, fueled by the Jets’ ongoing search for a new head coach after another disappointing season. Shanahan, with his proven track record of turning the 49ers into perennial contenders—including a Super Bowl appearance in 2023—was floated as a dream candidate to revive the struggling New York franchise. Sources speculated that the Jets’ ownership might offer a blockbuster deal to lure him east, citing his offensive genius and ties to the East Coast from his early coaching days. But Shanahan was quick to shut down the narrative.
“I’m not going anywhere,” Shanahan said, his tone resolute as he faced a room of reporters. “I love what we’re building here in San Francisco. My family’s here, my heart’s here, and we’ve got unfinished business. I don’t know where these rumors come from, but I’m focused on the 49ers—period.” He added with a rare flash of humor, “The Jets? I don’t even like flying that far for games, let alone moving there.”
The denial comes as a relief to 49ers fans, who’ve grown accustomed to Shanahan’s steady leadership since he took the helm in 2017. Under his guidance, San Francisco has transformed from a 4-12 squad into a powerhouse, boasting one of the league’s most innovative offenses and a stout defense. Despite occasional criticism for late-game decisions, Shanahan’s 64-46 record and two NFC Championship appearances speak for themselves. Losing him now, with quarterback Brock Purdy entering a contract year and a roster primed for another title run, would have been a gut punch to the Faithful.
Jets fans, meanwhile, are left disappointed but not entirely surprised. The franchise has been a coaching carousel for years, cycling through names like Adam Gase and Robert Saleh without finding stability. Shanahan’s name surfaced as a long-shot savior, but his deep roots in San Francisco—coupled with a six-year extension signed in 2020—made the move seem unlikely from the start. “It was wishful thinking,” one Jets supporter posted on X. “Shanahan’s not leaving a contender for our mess.”
Shanahan’s comments also drew support from his players, who’ve thrived under his system. Star defensive end Nick Bosa, rarely one for sentiment, said, “Kyle’s our guy. He’s not bailing on us—those rumors were nonsense.” Running back Christian McCaffrey echoed the sentiment: “He’s the backbone of this team. We’re glad he’s staying put.”
The timing of the rumor mill couldn’t have been worse for Shanahan, who’s navigating a busy offseason after a rollercoaster 2024 campaign. With key decisions looming—contract extensions, free agency moves, and draft preparations—he emphasized his focus remains squarely on the 49ers’ future. “We’re chasing something bigger than rumors,” he said. “I’ve got a team to coach and a goal to finish.”
For now, the Jets will need to look elsewhere for their next head coach, while San Francisco breathes a collective sigh of relief. Shanahan’s denial puts the speculation to rest, ensuring that one of the NFL’s brightest minds stays right where he belongs—at the helm of the 49ers’ quest for a sixth Lombardi Trophy.
