San Francisco 49ers’ Coaching Shake-Up: Meet the New Faces and Bold Moves That Could Change Everything in 2025
The San Francisco 49ers are undergoing a significant transformation in their coaching staff for the 2025 season, following a disappointing 6-11 record in 2024. This shake-up includes several key changes aimed at revitalizing the team’s performance and returning to their competitive form.
New Faces and Roles
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Klay Kubiak as Offensive Coordinator: Kubiak, previously the offensive passing specialist, has been promoted to offensive coordinator. However, Kyle Shanahan will retain primary play-calling duties15.
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Robert Saleh Returns as Defensive Coordinator: After a stint with the New York Jets, Robert Saleh is returning to the 49ers as defensive coordinator, replacing Nick Sorensen. Saleh’s return is expected to bring stability and familiarity to the defense26.
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Gus Bradley as Assistant Head Coach of Defense: Bradley joins the staff as assistant head coach of defense, bringing his expertise to support Saleh and enhance defensive strategies5.
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Brant Boyer as Special Teams Coordinator: Boyer takes over as special teams coordinator, replacing Brian Schneider, who was let go earlier in the offseason2.
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Ray Brown as Defensive Backs/Cornerbacks Coach: Brown has been hired to focus on defensive backs and cornerbacks, aiming to improve the secondary’s performance2.
Bold Moves for 2025
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Adaptation and Evolution: Kyle Shanahan has expressed openness to changing the defensive scheme, indicating a willingness to adapt and evolve beyond their traditional 4-3, Cover-3 base1.
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Draft Strategy: The 49ers hold the No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and are considering bold moves, such as trading up to secure top talent like Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham3.
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Roster Restructuring: With limited salary cap space, the 49ers are exploring options to retain key players while making strategic cuts, such as potentially parting ways with Deebo Samuel to free up cap space3.
Impact on the Team
These changes reflect the 49ers’ commitment to regaining their competitive edge after a disappointing season. The return of Robert Saleh and the promotion of Klay Kubiak are seen as strategic moves to stabilize and enhance both sides of the ball.
However, the team faces challenges, including a thinner depth chart and the need to navigate injuries and underperformance. The success of these new faces and bold moves will be crucial in determining the 49ers’ trajectory in 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates on the 49ers’ 2025 season.
