The San Francisco 49ers reportedly learned on Thursday that Houston Texans linebackers coach Mike Vrabel declined their offer to become defensive coordinator. Vrabel is viewed as an up-and-coming coach, so some folks were disappointed in the news. Others not as much given Vrabel's lack of significant coaching experience, but either way, the 49ers are moving on.
On Friday, Albert Breer tweeted that 49ers outside linebackers coach Jason Tarver and Ravens linebackers coach Don Martindale are both under consideration for the position. Eric Mangini spoke with Kelly last week, and he is the only other name connected to the position aside from Vrabel.
There is no doubt the defensive coordinator position is important under Chip Kelly. It's important for most coaches, but Chip Kelly's focus on offense, and use of fast-paced offense adds even more pressure to the position. It is not the end of the world, but it is a fact worth acknowledging. It is believed that Vrabel was able to turn this interview and job offer into a raise in Houston. He can build on two solid years, and odds are very good he will get more interviews next offseason. And worst case, he is likely a strong candidate to eventually succeed Romeo Crennel if he chooses to wait.
Don Martindale resume
2012-present: Baltimore Ravens - Inside Linebackers
2010: Denver Broncos - Defensive Coordinator
2009: Denver Broncos - Linebackers
2006-2008: Oakland Raiders - Linebackers
2004-2005: Oakland Raiders - Inside Linebackers
2003: Western Kentucky - Defensive Coordinator, Inside Linebackers
2001-2002: Western Kentucky - Inside Linebackers, Special Teams Coordinator
1999: Western Illinois - Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers
1997-1998: University of Cincinnati - Special Teams, Linebackers
1996: University of Cincinnati - Defensive Ends
1994-1995: Notre Dame - Defensive Assistant
1998-1993: High School - Defensive Coordinator for 3 high schools
1986-1987: Defiance College - Secondary Coach
Jason Tarver resume
2015: San Francisco 49ers - Outside Linebackers, Senior Defensive Assistant
2012-2014: Oakland Raiders - Defensive Coordinator
2011: Stanford - Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers
2005-2010: San Francisco 49ers - Outside Linebackers
2004: San Francisco 49ers - Assistant Running Backs, Offensive Assistant
2001-2003: San Francisco 49ers - Offensive Quality Control
1998-2000: UCLA - Graduate Assistant
1996-1997: West Valley College - Linebackers, Defensive Backs, Special Teams