News Article
Published
Oct 16, 2026 at 05:46 PM EDT
The San Francisco 49ers hired Raheem Morris as their new defensive coordinator following his dismissal as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.
Now five weeks into the 2026 NFL season, that's looking like an excellent decision for the 49ers franchise.
The 5-0 49ers rank near the top of the league in both total yards allowed per game (297.2) and points allowed per game (18.6).
When asked about the defense's performance so far, San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan said he wants Morris as his defensive coordinator for as long as possible.
"I see Raheem here for as long as I'm here. If I wasn't here, I'm sure they wouldn't be getting rid of him either," Shanahan told reporters on Thursday. "Raheem is so good of a coach you've always got to be nervous you'll lose him [to a head coaching job]. But if that doesn't happen, I don't plan on him ever leaving."
Morris has six seasons of head coaching experience, notching a 37-56 overall record over stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Falcons.
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Shanahan, Morris and the undefeated 49ers will face off against the Washington Commanders in a primetime "Monday Night Football" matchup in Week 6.