Key Highlights
- Jim Schwartz is seen as a good fit for the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator role by Lee Chan.
- Richard Sherman believes Jim Schwartz could benefit from being the 49ers’ defensive coordinator if he aims to become an NFL head coach.
- Morris is considered the best candidate among three interviewed for the position, based on his head-coaching experience and past success as a defensive coordinator.
- The 49ers are addressing their edge-rusher depth issues through the draft by considering candidates like K.C. Concepcion, Caleb Tiernan, and Anthony Lucas.
Week of Decision: 49ers Defensive Coordinator Search Heats Up
San Francisco is just one week away from making a critical decision on their defensive coordinator. The pressure is mounting as the team looks to bolster a defense that struggled in the second half of last season.
Lee Chan, a prominent insider, has weighed in on Jim Schwartz’s potential fit for the 49ers. According to her YouTube video published Jan. 30, 2026:
“Schwartz is a guy who obviously Kyle Shanahan respects a lot,” she said. “I don’t know that he’s the best fit for the 49ers and how they’re built defensively.”
Chan’s assessment underscores the complexity of the search, emphasizing that while Schwartz has clear respect from Shanahan, his defensive approach might not align with San Francisco’s existing strategy.
Schwartz’s Future Uncertain
Meanwhile, former 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman sees a silver lining for Schwartz if he lands the job. In an interview on “The Richard Sherman Podcast” published Jan. 30, 2026:
“I think if Schwartz goes to another team, a contender who’s out of a defensive coordinator right now, I think he has a head coach job within the next two years,” Sherman said.
Sherman’s prediction ties in with Shanahan’s history of promoting his lieutenants. Notable examples include DeMeco Ryans and Robert Saleh, both of whom have ascended to head coaching roles after serving as defensive coordinators for the 49ers.
Focus on Morris
Among the candidates interviewed, Morris is emerging as the frontrunner based on his comprehensive background. Grant Cohn from On SI shared his insights:
“I see Morris as the guy San Francisco should hire among the three candidates they have interviewed, given his head-coaching experience and his role as the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator when they won the Super Bowl.”
Morris’s extensive experience suggests he could hit the ground running, a factor that has not gone unnoticed by Shanahan.
Drafting for Depth
The 49ers are also addressing their defensive edge-rusher depth through the draft. Analysts like K.C. Infante have highlighted potential prospects:
“K.C.
Concepcion is a dynamic receiver with tremendous YAC ability and impressive quickness, excelling as a route runner who shoots out of his breaks,” said Infante.
Concepcion’s versatility could add depth to the team’s receiving corps, but he might not be seen as an ideal fit for their defensive needs. Other options like Caleb Tiernan and Anthony Lucas are also being considered:
“Caleb Tiernan is a massive blocker, standing at 6’7″ and weighing 329 pounds, with gap-zone run-blocking versatility,” Infante said.
These prospects could provide the physical presence needed on the defensive line, ensuring the team doesn’t suffer from depth issues again in the future.
The decision on who takes over as defensive coordinator is crucial for San Francisco’s future. With just one week left before a definitive choice is made, all eyes are on Shanahan and his staff to get it right.
