San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York has dealt with quite a bit of heated criticism over the last year, following the departure of head coach Jim Harbaugh. He did some decent work in his end-of-season press conference, but the current coach search is going to be big for perception.
Speaking of perception, nearly 40 years ago, then-owner Eddie DeBartolo had to deal with his own perception problems. He obviously turned things around in a big way, but fans were heated in their displeasure toward the then young 49ers owner. San Francisco Chronicle pop culture writer Peter Hartlaub occasionally digs into the Chronicle's archives and finds some great content. The tweets below are just a small sampling of the rage toward DeBartolo.
This is certainly not to say that Jed will be able to get things turned around in the same manner. I think that with this particular coaching hire, a strong middle man is a necessity. That kind of person did not appear to exist during Jim Harbaugh's time with the 49ers. Although Chip Kelly is a big personality, there is some thought that Tom Gamble could serve in such a role. Hue Jackson dealt with personnel power issues during his time with the Oakland Raiders. I don't know if there is somebody who could serve as an adequate middle man, but one positive, of sorts, we can note is that there is no question about who is in charge of personnel. Maybe that would help if Jackson were to get the job.
When SF hated Eddie D. ... Columnist calls DeBartolo Jr. an "arrogant young twirp" three days after buying @49ers. pic.twitter.com/r9hER4yDH1
— Peter Hartlaub (@peterhartlaub) January 6, 2016
When SF hated Eddie D. ... In 1979, fans hit DeBartolo with a full can of beer, suggested he "commit suicide." pic.twitter.com/RnuBoSVPJF
— Peter Hartlaub (@peterhartlaub) January 6, 2016
When SF hated Eddie D ... Sampling of 1978-79 letters to editor after DeBartolo hiked tickets to $12. Boycott 49ers! pic.twitter.com/2KgpYoKhrC
— Peter Hartlaub (@peterhartlaub) January 6, 2016