ESPN released its post-free-agency power rankings, placing the San Francisco 49ers at No. 15 after several key offseason departures. The team will need a stellar draft to improve their ranking, as the general consensus is that they haven’t done much to boost their position so far.
As part of the rankings, ESPN’s team reporters were tasked with identifying an under-the-radar move for each organization this offseason. Nick Wagoner didn’t highlight any of the underwhelming offseason signings, nor could he consider the reunion with Robert Saleh—who returns as defensive coordinator—an “under-the-radar” move. Instead, he focused on another coaching addition: hiring Gus Bradley as a defensive assistant.
“The Niners’ biggest move of the offseason was undoubtedly bringing back Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator,” Wagoner wrote. “While adding Bradley didn’t generate as many headlines, it’s a move that could pay dividends in the short and long term.”
Saleh and Bradley have worked together with the Seattle Seahawks (2011-12) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2014-16). Additionally, head coach Kyle Shanahan initially tried to hire Bradley as his defensive coordinator in 2017. However, Bradley joined the Los Angeles Chargers that offseason, leading the 49ers to hire Saleh.
“Bradley has 12 years experience as an NFL defensive coordinator and another four as a head coach,” Wagoner continued. “And, if Saleh has success and takes another head coaching job, Bradley would then become an obvious candidate to take over as coordinator in San Francisco or for Saleh wherever he might land.”