Kyle Shanahan Reshapes 49ers Coaching Staff Ahead of 2025 Season
San Francisco Looks to Strengthen Defensive Coaching
As the 2025 offseason unfolds, Kyle Shanahan is actively refining the San Francisco 49ers coaching staff before diving into free agency and the draft. In a bid to bolster the defensive unit, Shanahan is set to interview former Carolina Panthers assistant defensive backs coach DeAngelo Hall for a key role on his staff.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Garofolo, Hall, 41, will interview for the 49ers’ defensive backs coach position during the first week of February. Hall spent the last two seasons with the Panthers but mutually parted ways after the 2024 season to pursue a promotion elsewhere.
During his tenure with Carolina, Hall worked alongside safeties coach Bert Watts and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley. Despite their efforts, the Panthers struggled in pass defense, ranking in the bottom 10 in opponent passing yards per game, completion percentage, and yards per pass. At the end of the season, both Watts and Hall were relieved of their duties.
If hired, Hall would assume responsibilities previously held by Daniel Bullocks, the 49ers’ defensive backs coach and defensive passing game specialist. This move would likely allow Bullocks to focus solely on his role as the defensive passing game specialist.
DeAngelo Hall’s Legacy and Coaching Potential
Though relatively new to coaching, Hall brings a wealth of NFL experience. A former standout cornerback, he enjoyed a 14-year career in the league, spending the majority of his time with the Washington Redskins (now Commanders). One of the premier defensive backs of the 2000s, Hall earned All-Pro honors and made three Pro Bowl appearances before retiring in 2018.
His leadership and playing experience could be invaluable to the 49ers’ secondary, particularly in mentoring young defensive backs and improving pass coverage efficiency.
49ers’ Coaching Changes in 2025
Shanahan’s pursuit of Hall is just one piece of a larger coaching overhaul in San Francisco. The offseason began with the hiring of former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator, replacing Nick Sorensen. Saleh previously served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020 before taking the Jets’ head coaching job.
Shanahan also brought in Brant Boyer from the Jets as the new special teams coordinator, after parting ways with Brian Schneider, who held the position from 2022 to 2024.
On the offensive side, Shanahan promoted Klay Kubiak from offensive passing game specialist to offensive coordinator. However, Shanahan has made it clear that he will retain play-calling duties for the foreseeable future. Kubiak’s appointment marks the first official offensive coordinator role on the team since Mike McDaniel left to become the Miami Dolphins head coach in 2022.
A Balance of Change and Continuity
Despite significant coaching turnover, the 49ers still maintain a level of continuity within the organization. Both Saleh and Kubiak have prior experience in Shanahan’s system, ensuring a sense of familiarity for the team. Their return to key roles should provide stability and allow for a smoother transition heading into the new season.
Focus Shifts to Roster Management
With the coaching staff nearly finalized, the 49ers’ attention now turns to roster management. Following a disappointing 2024 campaign, the team is expected to make substantial personnel changes over the summer. General Manager John Lynch has emphasized his commitment to extending quarterback Brock Purdy but has remained tight-lipped about additional roster moves.
As the offseason progresses, the 49ers will look to reinforce their roster while maintaining the competitive edge that has defined Shanahan’s tenure. With strategic coaching hires and potential key player acquisitions, San Francisco aims to rebound strongly in the 2025 season.
