49ers Fire Defensive and Special Teams Coordinators After Disappointing Season

Head coach Kyle Shanahan cites adaptability and performance issues as key factors in the decision to replace Nick Sorensen and Brian Schneider.

The San Francisco 49ers have fired defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen and special teams coordinator Brian Schneider following a 6-11 season plagued by injuries and underperformance.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the need for a defensive coordinator with more experience and adaptability, particularly in handling personnel challenges caused by injuries.
Sorensen, a rookie coordinator, faced criticism for his inability to adjust defensive strategies effectively, contributing to the team allowing the fourth-most points in the NFL this season.
Schneider's departure follows a significant decline in special teams performance, including a drop in kicker Jake Moody’s field goal success rate to the lowest in the NFC West.
Shanahan plans to interview both internal and external candidates for the defensive coordinator role, with Brandon Staley and other experienced coaches under consideration.