"I sent him a text, but I haven't gotten to talk to him," Shanahan told reporters on Tuesday. "Yeah, I was pretty shocked. That stuff throws you off, especially when they're competing for first in the division this week. And I think they're up there on defense and got a pretty good team and a chance to have a hell of a year. So, that was pretty surprising."
Some have speculated about whether the 49ers might consider bringing Saleh back in some capacity to help their struggling defense. However, Shanahan expressed confidence in first-year defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen.
"I think Nick's doing a real good job," Shanahan affirmed. "I've been impressed with him since the beginning. Each week, I like how he handles the defensive staff, I like how they set up the practices, and I've liked his game plans, and I liked how he's called it. So, I've been real happy with Nick so far."
As for Saleh, a report from Michael Silver of the San Francisco Chronicle indicated that he plans to take some time off, spend time with his family, and prepare for the next hiring cycle, when he's likely to be in high demand as a defensive coordinator.
Silver added, "He has no plans to join anyone's staff during the 2024 season, should an opportunity arise."
Of course, fans have to wonder what might happen after the season if Sorensen's defense continues to struggle.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers mailbag: Why did SF abandon the run against Detroit? Will the 49ers focus on offense or defense this offseason? Will SF replace Nick Sorensen with Robert Saleh?
There are a lot of questions that will follow the San Francisco 49ers into the offseason. Who will get extensions? Who will be let go? What moves will they make in free agency and the draft? And many more. You have questions, as well, and that's a good thing because we opened... -
49ers' Kyle Shanahan confident Nick Sorensen will grow as a coach
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reporters on Saturday following the team's final practice before their Monday night primetime matchup against the Detroit Lions. With the 49ers enduring a disappointing 2024 season, questions have emerged about whether... -
Brock Purdy, Nick Sorensen, Chris Foerster preview 49ers-Lions Week 17 matchup
San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen, offensive line/run game coordinator Chris Foerster, and quarterback Brock Purdy spoke to reporters after Friday's practice as the team prepares for its Week 17 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Here's everything they... -
Nick Sorensen reflects on learning curve in first year as 49ers coordinator
Nick Sorensen has been heavily criticized for the underwhelming performance of the San Francisco 49ers' defense this season. Some have speculated that the team's struggles might cost Sorensen his job, potentially prompting head coach Kyle Shanahan to search for a third...