Is trouble brewing in San Francisco?

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Wednesday, March 25, 2009  |  Comments( 4 )

San Francisco 49ers
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It’s been reported that things aren’t so keen between the San Francisco 49ers' coaching staff and front office. While the 49ers are determined to turn the corner in 2009, a rift such as this could impede the progress made during the second half of last season.

While head coach Mike Singletary has brought a no-nonsense attitude to the Bay Area, that approach may be clashing with the front office. Both entities feature several new faces, meaning they might not be on the same page just yet.

Recent reports show that the coaching staff didn’t have a say on multiple free-agent signings and had no knowledge of the transactions. With a disconnect like this, things could get even worse for the 49ers -- who have suffered through six consecutive losing seasons.

Singletary has supposedly been notified of the happenings, but the assistant coaches were left high and dry. One example is the acquisition of former Tennessee Titans wide receiver Brandon Jones. He didn’t garner much appeal from San Francisco’s assistant coaches, but nonetheless Jones is now a member of the 49ers.

Another instance included the signing of quarterback Damon Huard. While Huard will provide veteran leadership in the locker room, his best playing days are obviously behind him. The addition of Huard was reportedly not discussed with the majority of the coaches, who were surprised when they heard the news.

There’s no question that a position coach shouldn’t have the final say in roster moves, but they should be aware and onboard with certain decisions. Disregarding an assistant’s opinion not only undermines his importance to the team, but it will undoubtedly bring conflict within the coaching staff and possibly the entire organization.

With the draft rapidly approaching, the input of assistant coaches will be vital to picking the right players. Several opinions and sets of eyes are needed to critique players with such a heavy investment on the line.

If San Francisco continues down this current path, it will not only affect the demeanor of the current assistants, but it could cause a lapse in judgment come April. With a great deal riding on this year’s draft, this disconnect must be addressed immediately. Doing so will allow the 49ers to work together and collaboratively while building for the future.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To...
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