49ers Hire Matt Eberflus as Assistant Head Coach of Defense

Experienced coordinator joins San Francisco's coaching staff

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The San Francisco 49ers have hired Matt Eberflus as their new assistant head coach of defense. Eberflus, a 55-year-old veteran coach, previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025 and was the head coach of the Chicago Bears from 2022 to 2024.

Why it matters

The 49ers are looking to bolster their defensive coaching staff after losing defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who took the same role with the Tennessee Titans. Eberflus brings a wealth of experience and expertise that should help the 49ers maintain their strong defensive performance.

The details

Eberflus will fill the role vacated by Gus Bradley, who followed Saleh to Tennessee. The 49ers also hired Raheem Morris as their new defensive coordinator to replace Saleh.

  • Eberflus was the Cowboys' defensive coordinator in 2025.
  • Eberflus was the Bears' head coach from 2022 to 2024.

The players

Matt Eberflus

A 55-year-old veteran coach who is joining the San Francisco 49ers as their new assistant head coach of defense.

Gus Bradley

The former 49ers assistant head coach of defense who is following Robert Saleh to the Tennessee Titans.

Robert Saleh

The former 49ers defensive coordinator who is now the defensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans.

Raheem Morris

The new defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, replacing Robert Saleh.

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The takeaway

The 49ers are making a strategic move to bolster their defensive coaching staff by bringing in an experienced coordinator in Matt Eberflus. This should help them maintain their strong defensive performance as they look to build on their recent success.