49ers Assistant Could Depart for Defensive Coordinator Role

Gus Bradley drawing interest from Titans and Cardinals after missing out on 49ers DC job

Feb. 1, 2026 at 5:39pm

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The San Francisco 49ers have hired Raheem Morris as their new defensive coordinator, but that move could lead to the departure of assistant head coach Gus Bradley. According to NFL insider Albert Breer, the Tennessee Titans or Arizona Cardinals could hire Bradley as their defensive coordinator, with the Cardinals potentially giving him play-calling duties.

Why it matters

Bradley has extensive experience as a defensive coordinator, having held that role with the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Indianapolis Colts. Losing him would be a significant blow to the 49ers, as many players on the roster have spoken positively about Bradley throughout the 2025 season.

The details

The 49ers hired Raheem Morris as their new defensive coordinator after Robert Saleh left to become the head coach of the Tennessee Titans. While Morris may be a capable replacement, his hiring could open the door for Bradley to depart San Francisco and take on a defensive coordinator role elsewhere.

  • On Sunday, the 49ers hired Raheem Morris as their new defensive coordinator.

The players

Raheem Morris

The new defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers.

Robert Saleh

The former defensive coordinator for the 49ers who left to become the new head coach of the Tennessee Titans.

Gus Bradley

The 49ers' assistant head coach who is drawing interest from the Titans and Cardinals for their defensive coordinator positions.

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What they’re saying

“The Titans or Cardinals could hire him as DC, with Arizona having the edge of making him play-caller.”

— Albert Breer, MMQB Writer (MMQB)

What’s next

The 49ers will need to determine if they can retain Gus Bradley as their assistant head coach or if he will depart for a defensive coordinator role with another team.

The takeaway

The 49ers' coaching staff is undergoing significant changes this offseason, with the loss of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and the potential departure of assistant head coach Gus Bradley. These moves highlight the challenges of maintaining continuity in the NFL, even for successful teams like the 49ers.