Overview
- Harbaugh said Wednesday that offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel will continue to hold the call sheet coming out of the bye and that he remains confident in McDaniel’s talent and work ethic.
- The coach said the staff will simplify and tighten the offense, a move he and coaches hope will improve efficiency in short yardage, third down, red zone and protection situations.
- The decision follows a 0-6 start marked by the NFL’s worst scoring offense and bottom-tier marks in yards, touchdown production, turnover rate and sacks allowed.
- Multiple reports say McDaniel is on a short leash and that ownership is unlikely to hire an outside coordinator, leaving internal reassignment or Harbaugh taking a larger offensive role as the probable alternatives.
- The choice carries roster and calendar consequences because the trade deadline and a difficult upcoming schedule create urgency for measurable improvement from quarterback Justin Herbert and the offense.