By Sunday 
Why the 49ers Are Stockpiling Defensive Coaches – And What It Means for 2026
A Strategic Move to Secure the Future
The San Francisco 49ers are making bold moves in their coaching staff, and the latest addition of Gus Bradley signals a calculated approach to securing defensive stability. While Bradley’s official role remains undefined, his arrival suggests the 49ers are thinking ahead—possibly as far as 2026.
With Robert Saleh returning as defensive coordinator, but likely to be a top head-coaching candidate again soon, the team appears to be preparing for an inevitable transition. If Saleh exits after one season, Bradley, a veteran defensive mind, could be the obvious successor.
Bradley’s Return to Familiar Territory
Bradley, a former Jaguars head coach and longtime defensive coordinator, is no stranger to the 49ers’ defensive system. His ties to head coach Kyle Shanahan date back to 2017 when Shanahan attempted to bring him in as defensive coordinator. At the time, Bradley chose the Chargers, leading the 49ers to hire Saleh instead.
Now, things have come full circle. Bradley, who recently wrapped up a three-year stint as the Colts’ defensive coordinator, is back in the mix, bringing over a decade of experience running defenses similar to what the 49ers deploy.
The Saleh-Bradley Connection
The connection between Saleh and Bradley runs deep. Saleh worked under Bradley in Seattle before following him to Jacksonville as a linebackers coach. He has credited Bradley, along with Pete Carroll, for shaping his defensive philosophy.
This mentorship dynamic suggests that if Saleh does leave after one season, the transition to Bradley would be seamless. The 49ers wouldn’t need to start over—they’d have a qualified leader already embedded in the system.
Planning for a Possible 2026 Shift
While Saleh’s immediate focus is reviving a 49ers defense that struggled last season, his long-term future is uncertain. If he succeeds, he’ll likely land another head-coaching job in 2026, leaving the 49ers searching for a new defensive leader once again.
By bringing in Bradley now, the 49ers are ensuring continuity. Whether or not Saleh stays beyond one season, the team has positioned itself with an experienced defensive mind ready to step in.
For San Francisco, this isn’t just about hiring another coach—it’s about future-proofing a key part of their team. And in a league where stability breeds success, the 49ers are making sure they’re prepared for whatever comes next.