Good morning! This past weekend was the first without football, and it ended in a rough way for 49ers fans. Running backs coach Tom Rathman informed the media that he will not be returning under Kyle Shanahan.
It is disappointing to see Rathman depart. He is the most significant visible connection to the 49ers glory days, but he is also viewed as a really good running backs coach. He lasted through five coaching staffs, starting with Mike Singletary. The 49ers will replace him with a well-respected coach in Bobby Turner, but it is still tough.
The 49ers have formally hired six of their assistants, including four offensive coaches, a strength and conditioning coach, and an administrative assistant. I imagine this coming week we’ll hear more of the hirings, and quite possibly all of them. The defensive hires are particularly intriguing to me given Shanahan’s primary experience on offense.
On to the links!
Rathman will not return as assistant on 49ers staff (Maiocco)
Tom Rathman won't be part of Kyle Shanhan's 49ers' staff (Barrows)
Report: Tom Rathman confirms he's left 49ers (Inman)
Tom Rathman is no longer with the 49ers (Jones)
Source says coach Tom Rathman won’t return to 49ers (Branch)
Making Up for Lost Time (49ers Webzone)
49ers Mailbag: Quarterback talk dominates offseason (Maiocco)