Nick Sorensen is out as the 49ers defensive coordinator. That does not mean he will not be back on the 49ers staff
The San Francisco 49ers are making a change at defensive coordinator, per NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, who also said the 49ers hope they can retain Sorensen on Kyle Shanahan’s staff.
This will be the 49ers’ fourth defensive coordinator in as many years. The identity has been largely similar, but this was by far the most passive unit under Shanahan. It’s also worth pointing out that this was the least talented defensive line.
When you’re not generating pressure, quarterbacks can easily sit back and find open receivers down the field. This showed how different opposing defenses played not only the 49ers but also the upper-echelon offenses in the NFL.
The Detroit Lions are a prime example. Their defensive coordinator, Aaron Glenn, is up for multiple head coaching jobs this cycle. He was as aggressive as ever this past Sunday night despite being down multiple starters.
In today’s NFL, you have to be the aggressor. You can’t sit back and throw the occasional jab. We’ll see if that’s the direction Shanahan turns to.
Robert Saleh, Dennis Allen, Jeff Ulbrich, Matt Eberflus, Al Golden, Patrick Graham. The list goes on and on. There are several options out there, including Lou Anarumo, that figure to interview with the 49ers. Shanahan will not be short on candidates.