49ers add Welker to coaching staff

SANTA CLARA – Wes Welker, who led the NFL in receptions three times during his New England Patriots tenure, is joining the 49ers coaching staff.

Welker’s role, likely as a receivers coach, has yet to be announced or confirmed by the 49ers. His hiring was first reported Tuesday by the Houston Chronicle’s John Mcclain.

Welker, 37, retired from his 12-year career after the 2015 season, and he spent the past two years as a Houston Texans assistant. He reportedly interviewed this past month with the 49ers and Green Bay Packers.

Welker made five Pro Bowls and earned four Allpro honors during a career that saw him play with the San Diego Chargers (2004), Miami Dolphins (2004-06), Patriots (2007-12), Denver Broncos (2013-14) and St. Louis Rams (2015). He totaled 903 receptions for 9,924 yards and 50 touchdowns while also serving as a return specialist (264 punt returns, 183 kick returns).

Most likely to benefit from his addition are young, slot-friendly receivers Trent Taylor and Richie James, with Dante Pettis also figuring to improve after an encouraging rookie season. While George Kittle set a NFL tight-end record with 1,377 yards, the 49ers wide receivers were led by Kendrick Bourne (487 yards) and Pettis (457).

The 49ers receivers have been coached the previous two seasons by Mike Lafleur (passing game coordinator) and Katie Sowers (offensive assistant). Both are expected to remain on the staff.

Kyle Shanahan has had to make a few, mostly minor, changes to his coaching staff entering his third season at the helm.

Shane Day has taken over as quarterbacks coach in place of Rich Scangarello, now the Denver Broncos offensive coordinator.

Kris Kocurek replaced Jeff Zgonina as the defensive line coach, and former Broncos defensive coordinator Joe Woods is the 49ers new passing game coordinator on defense in place of former secondary coach Jeff Hafley.