49ers’ Coaching Change: A Shift in Defensive Strategy

The San Francisco 49ers made a significant change this offseason by hiring Raheem Morris to replace Robert Saleh as the defensive coordinator. But it’s not just a simple swap; there’s a shift in how defense will be approached.

“Raheem focuses more on the secondary while Saleh was all about linebackers,” said 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan. “To be effective, a coordinator needs to understand all parts of the defense. Raheem has that knowledge.”

Saleh was known for his linebacker expertise, while Morris utilized defensive backs in creative ways. This season, Morris has introduced two new hybrid roles: a “star” and a “feverback.” The star is a versatile nickel defender who can cover the slot, assist in stopping the run, and pressure the quarterback. The feverback can shift from edge-rushing to dropping back into coverage.

This change became apparent during a joint practice with the Tennessee Titans, with Morris aggressively sending linebacker Fred Warner after quarterback Cam Ward—a stark contrast to Saleh’s usually conservative blitzing style. One misdirection left Ward confused, resulting in a pick-six for Ziair Brown.

Linebackers coach KJ Wright provided a vague explanation of the strategy, seemingly referencing the excitement of the game. “It feels like a football disease,” he said, almost poetically.

Players noticed the difference as well. Left tackle Trent Williams commented, “Everything feels different now,” while praising Brown’s standout performance in camp. Defensive back Renaldo Green mentioned how Morris’s approach has allowed him to be more instinctive on the field, and Deomodore Lenoir appreciated the simplified expectations set for him.

However, it’s not to say that Saleh had everything locked down perfectly. After key injuries last season to Nick Bosa and Warner, he had to juggle numerous responsibilities, which included managing a struggling secondary under pressure.

Morris is surrounded by defensive talent in Warner and Dre Greenlaw, and he’s adapting with blitz schemes to make up for injuries, particularly Bosa’s absence. During practice against the Titans, the defense proved to be aggressive, with multiple skirmishes breaking out—showing just how intense the competition is.

Ultimately, this coaching change reflects the dynamics of Shanahan’s vision. Saleh returns with a distinctive linebacker-based structure, while Morris introduces a fresh approach filled with tactical pressures and unconventional roles. Both coaches emphasize aggressive play during games, but there’s a clear distinction in their methods.

On Tuesday, as players adjusted to the new philosophy, it became clear that learning and adapting remains, well, a work in progress.