Mike Shanahan, Kyle Shanahan might be a package deal for 49ers, others

The San Francisco 49ers reported pursuit of former Denver Broncos and Washington head coach Mike Shanahan features several questions. The most prominent might be whatever control issues might exist over football operations between Shanahan and general manager Trent Baalke. Shanahan has had his share of power, and one wonders how long he could co-exist without having significant control.

A new issue is one that has been speculated on, but never fully put together. Cleveland Browns beat writer Mary Kay Cabot is reporting offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan would consider leaving Cleveland for another OC job, due to friction between coaches and the front office. Kyle is in the mix for head coaching jobs, with a report that the 49ers have requested permission to interview him.

In discussing the 49ers next coach, Jed York told the media he wanted to "make sure that this is a person that's going to be here for the next 10-plus years and hopefully have a successor." I don't think anybody would expect Mike Shanahan to last ten years in San Francisco, and really, I would be surprised if he was around half that time. However, if the 49ers went Shanahan-squared on the coaching staff, it would likely indicate the team views Kyle as a potential successor to Mike.