49ers coaching changed after Shanahan crash; Saints, Falcons, Giants top rankings
Kyle Shanahan, the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, will miss training camp and likely Week 1 due to a serious car accident that left him with multiple injuries. Assistant Chris Foerster will lead in his absence.
Shanahan broke his nose, hand, and three ribs and required over 40 stitches. He attended the first practice but was an onlooker. No timetable for his return yet.
The NFL’s unpredictability means at least one team might go from worst to first again this year. We rank those most likely:
- 1. New Orleans Saints
- 2. Detroit Lions
- 3. New York Giants
- 4. New York Jets
- 5. Tennessee Titans
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Shanahan return by Week 1?
General manager John Lynch says it's not guaranteed, but the 49ers expect him to be back for Australia season opener.
Which teams might go from worst to first in 2026?
The New Orleans Saints have a better chance at winning despite Tua Tagovailoa being the favorite for Week 1. The Dallas Cowboys are revamping their defense under Christian Parker, and Malik Nabers hopes to play after an ACL injury.