49ers Bolster Coaching Staff with Experienced Defensive Mind Matt Eberflus

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers are continuing to reshape their coaching staff this offseason, adding former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus as a defensive assistant, according to multiple reports confirmed Thursday. The move signals a continued emphasis on defensive expertise under head coach Kyle Shanahan as the team prepares for the 2026 NFL season.

Eberflus, who led the Bears from 2022 through 2024, brings a wealth of experience to the Bay Area. Prior to his time in Chicago, he served as a defensive coordinator for both the Indianapolis Colts and the Dallas Cowboys. His appointment comes after a period of defensive coaching staff transitions for the 49ers, with Gus Bradley recently departing to become the defensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans under Robert Saleh, who previously held the same role in San Francisco. Raheem Morris has since taken the reins as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator.

Shanahan has demonstrated a pattern of bringing in seasoned coaches with head coaching or high-level coordinator experience, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Last year, the 49ers brought in Brandon Staley as a defensive assistant to support then-defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen. Staley, a former head coach for the Los Angeles Chargers and previously a successful defensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams, is now the defensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints. Bradley also has head coaching experience, having previously led the Jacksonville Jaguars, and served as a defensive coordinator for multiple NFL teams.

Eberflus’s Role and Impact on the 49ers Defense

While an official title has not yet been announced, Eberflus is expected to fill a role similar to the one held by Bradley, assisting Morris in game planning and defensive strategy. This move suggests the 49ers are not planning any major overhauls to their defensive scheme, which has traditionally favored four-man fronts and zone coverage – a system Eberflus is well-versed in. The 49ers finished the 2025 season with a 12-5 record, largely due to a resilient defense that remained effective despite numerous injuries.

Eberflus’s track record as a defensive coordinator is notable. During his tenure with the Colts (2018-2021), Indianapolis consistently ranked among the league’s top defenses. However, his time as head coach of the Bears was less successful, compiling a 14-32 record before being relieved of his duties midway through the 2024 campaign. His single season as defensive coordinator for the Cowboys in 2025 ended with the team allowing the most points and recording the fewest interceptions in franchise history, leading to his dismissal.

Despite the recent challenges, Eberflus’s extensive experience and understanding of defensive principles produce him a valuable addition to Shanahan’s staff. He is known for his ability to develop linebackers and implement effective defensive schemes. The 49ers’ defense, even with key players sidelined, proved its toughness last season, and Eberflus and Morris will be tasked with maintaining that level of performance.

The hiring of Eberflus continues a trend of the 49ers prioritizing experienced defensive coaches. This approach is likely aimed at providing stability and expertise as the team navigates a competitive NFC West and strives for another Super Bowl appearance. For fans, it’s a signal that the team is committed to maintaining a strong defensive identity, a hallmark of their recent success.

The 49ers will initiate their offseason program in April, providing Eberflus and Morris ample time to collaborate and implement their defensive strategies. The team’s next key date is the NFL Draft, where they will appear to add talent to both sides of the ball.

The San Francisco 49ers play their home games at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.