San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has detailed the strategic differences between the team's new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris and his predecessor, Robert Saleh. While both coordinators are expected to lead a strong defense, Shanahan noted that Morris's background leans heavily towards secondary play, whereas Saleh's expertise was more rooted in linebacker strategy.
Morris has introduced new hybrid roles to the 49ers' defense, including the "star" and "fever backer." The "star" is designed as an all-purpose nickel defender capable of covering the slot, supporting the run, and rushing the passer. The "fever backer" can be positioned off the ball, rush from the edge, or drop into coverage, offering significant versatility.
These changes were evident during a joint practice with Saleh's current team, the Tennessee Titans. Morris was observed sending linebacker Fred Warner on more frequent blitzes, a departure from the traditionally low blitz rates employed under Saleh. One such disguised coverage resulted in an interception returned for a touchdown by safety Ji’Ayir Brown.
Despite the new terminology and schemes, players have responded positively. Left tackle Trent Williams described the changes as making "everything's different," and Brown called it his "favorite training camp." Cornerback Renardo Green stated that Morris's defense allows him to play more aggressively, while Deommodore Lenoir praised the coordinator for simplifying his assignments.
Shanahan suggested that the 2025 season's defensive struggles for the 49ers were exacerbated by significant injuries, including Nick Bosa's ACL tear and Fred Warner's season-ending ankle injury. These absences, combined with the loss of their primary communicator, necessitated a greater reliance on the secondary and may have influenced Saleh's scheme.
Morris, now with a healthier linebacker corps including Warner and Dre Greenlaw, is utilizing increased blitzing and simulated pressures to compensate for Bosa's ongoing absence. The new defensive scheme also proved to be physical during the practice against the Titans, with multiple fights breaking out early in the session.