A deep dive into 49ers' DC hire
Why SF opted to go with Sorensen — an in-house promotion
Nick Sorensen took a seat in the front row as other 49ers defensive assistants scattered throughout Levi's Stadium's auditorium. It was last June, when they were made available for their annual speed-dating meet-and-greet with reporters.
“Nick Sorensen, nice to meet you,” he politely said while extending his hand.
Who is Nick Sorensen, and why is he taking over as defensive coordinator of the 49ers' high-priced unit that just had a Super Bowl meltdown? And why will he be aided by former Los Angeles Chargers coach Brandon Staley, who's coming aboard as Kyle Shanahan's assistant head coach?
Consider it the best of both worlds in a hiring process that officially stretched 21/2 weeks but has roots beyond that. Sorensen's decade-plus experience in the 49ers' preferred scheme makes sense for the in-house promotion, and Staley can assist from not just his leadership perspective but also advise with needed tweaks to the system.
The 49ers have yet to officially confirm those defensive appointments but that is the expected succession plan, as first reported Saturday by ESPN.
Sorensen has been on Shanahan's defensive staff for the past two seasons. When asked at that June introduction for his speciality, he noted that he was helping out with the linebackers, but that he also has a background with defensive backs, especially nickel backs, which is the role he was primarily seen coaching in practices this past season.
Don't look at the position group, per se. Sorenen's specialty is the defensive scheme the 49ers have used since Shanahan arrived as coach in