Kyle Shanahan went on KNBR's "Tolbert, Krueger and Brooks" show Friday afternoon and one of the more fascinating topics brought up was Joe Staley and the prospects of him coaching anytime soon.
Earlier this week, the former 49er left tackle, who made six Pro Bowls in his career and was named to the NFL's 2010-2019 All-Decade Team, was seen at the 49ers-Chargers joint practice, as it was a close distance from where he currently resides.
With the offensive lineman being one of the smartest players of his team, it certainly wouldn't be shocking if he became an NFL coach, especially for the only team he played for in his career: the 49ers.
On the radio show, Shanahan expressed that he would be excited if it were to happen, but didn't provide a timetable as to when Staley would potentially approach the decision.
"I would think [that Staley enough money not to work coaching hours]. I love football, but if you really want to be in football and you have that type of money already put away, go enjoy coaching high school and hopefully live in the same city and let your kids be there forever. But, there's a thing about having a passion for [football] and wanting to do it at this level."
While Shanahan noted that the former lineman turned down his coaching offer in January, Shanahan did indicate that Staley's decision could come sooner than later due to Staley wanting to just be around the game.
"Joe's someone whom I looked into this January asking if he'd be interested, and he said it was too early for him, but I know the longer he sits out, the more he misses it. I think he just wanted to come up this week and get an idea for what we're doing and he's been great," Shanahan said. "I love Joe. [He was] such a good football player and he was a freak of a talent, but also his mind [was amazing]. He was an extremely smart player who added a lot to this team and helped a lot of people and I know the more he gets into it, he'll be really good at it. You just got to see if that's really what he wants to do.
With Staley living in Encinitas, California with his family currently, it could require significant persuasion to bring the former 49er back to the team, but Staley's own desires may accelerate that decision.
When do you think, if at all, Staley will turn to the coaching ranks?
You can listen to the entire conversation with Shanahan below.
- Rohan Chakravarthi
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Written by:Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
