The San Francisco 49ers have formally begun reshaping their defensive staff, and their latest move signals a clear preference for experience and familiarity.
San Francisco has interviewed Raheem Morris for its open defensive coordinator position, according to league sources, bringing one of the most respected names on the market into the process.
Morris immediately stands out as a proven option, having won a Super Bowl as defensive coordinator of the Los Angeles Rams, where his units were known for discipline, adaptability, and postseason poise.
The interview also highlights the long-standing relationship between Morris and Kyle Shanahan, a connection that dates back across multiple stops in the NFL and carries significant weight inside the organization.
Shanahan has never hidden his admiration, previously calling Morris “one of the best coaches” he has worked with and openly acknowledging attempts to bring him to San Francisco in past seasons.
For the 49ers, the timing matters. The team has cycled through defensive coordinators in recent years, and front-office leadership believes consistency is critical for maximizing a roster already loaded with defensive talent.
Morris brings more than scheme knowledge. He has managed elite locker rooms, coached under playoff pressure, and balanced star power with accountability — qualities the 49ers value as they remain firmly in a Super Bowl window.
The interview comes as Morris continues to monitor potential head-coaching opportunities around the league. If those doors close, he is widely expected to become one of the most sought-after coordinators available.
That reality adds urgency for San Francisco. Other teams are expected to pursue Morris quickly should he signal openness to a coordinator role.
By initiating formal talks, the 49ers have positioned themselves early in what could become a competitive pursuit — one that may determine the direction and stability of their defense in the seasons ahead.
