Assistant Cooptates Group Effort: Coaches Lead 49ers in Absence of Shanahan

With head coach Kyle Shanahan sidelined due to a severe concussion, assistant head coach/offensive line Chris Foerster is leading the San Francisco 49ers during training camp. In his first media session, Foerster emphasized that this leadership role is “not an individual thing but more of a group effort.”

“The title puts me in this position,” said Foerster. “But there will be other things taken care of by the various coordinators during team meetings and throughout the day.

‘It’s really a group thing,’ Foerster told reporters, highlighting how Klay Kubiak, Raheem Morris, and Brant Boyer will help lead different areas.”

How the Coaching Team Is Dividing Responsibilities

“Kyle is such an effective leader at team meetings,” Foerster added. “Leading with him in charge has been a smooth process so far, but we’ll see as Shanahan returns and regains his full role.”

“I delegated today’s morning meeting to both offense and defense, and will continue to delegate based on what works best for the team,” Foerster noted.

Leadership by Example: Foerster Embraces Servant Leadership

Foerster believes that leadership is about serving. “Any way I can help Kyle, any way I can help the 49ers… that’s where I get a charge out of life,” he said.

“It’s not about me; it’s all about sharing football and helping players understand the game better,” Foerster explained.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question?

The duration of Shanahan’s absence is unclear, depending on his recovery from the concussion. “Every day he could do more or less, so we’re just going to take things one step at a time,” Foerster said.

Question?

Will there be a clear leader during this transition? According to Foerster, it’s not about individual ownership but shared responsibilities. “Kyle told me to do what I think is best and delegate if needed,” he added.