The San Francisco 49ers have appointed Raheem Morris, formerly the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, to serve as their defensive coordinator, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Morris steps into the role previously held by Robert Saleh, who departed after a single season to assume the head coaching responsibilities for the Tennessee Titans.
Having previously served as head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and as a defensive coordinator for both the Falcons and the Los Angeles Rams, Morris led Atlanta’s team for two years. His tenure with the Falcons concluded when he was dismissed following two consecutive seasons where the team achieved an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs.
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Morris assumes control of a defensive unit that experienced significant injury challenges in 2025, with season-ending setbacks for key players such as All-Pro pass rusher Nick Bosa and All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner. During that season, the 49ers ranked 20th across the NFL in terms of total yards conceded and were 13th, permitting an average of 21.8 points per contest.
Raheem Morris is poised to lead a 49ers defense, with expectations for the return of injured All-Pros Nick Bosa and Fred Warner in 2026.
(ASSOCIATED PRESS)
The 49ers have aspirations that Morris can transform San Francisco’s defensive corps into an elite group within the league, aiming for a strong comeback into championship contention.
Even with a significant number of injuries affecting pivotal players on offense and defense, the 49ers concluded the season with a 12-5 record, progressing to the divisional playoff round. Upon reaching that stage, they proved unable to compete with the NFC champion Seattle Seahawks, who dominated them in a 41-6 rout on their path to the Super Bowl.
The 49ers anticipate improved fortune regarding injuries in the upcoming season and aim for a renewed bid for supremacy, having qualified for the playoffs in four out of the last five seasons. With Morris, they gain a highly regarded and seasoned NFL professional to direct their defensive strategies.
