Norton opts out, accepts Seattle job

Those who blinked missed the Ken Norton Jr. coaching era with the 49ers.

On Monday, a week after the 49ers announced Norton’s hiring, their defensive assistant reversed course and accepted a position as the Seahawks’ defensive coordinator, KING 5 News in Seattle reported. Norton had an escape clause in his 49ers contract that allowed him to leave for the Seahawks’ post, NFL Network reported. Seattle had an opening after parting with defensive coordinator Kris Richard.

Said 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan in a statement: “Last week, Ken was presented with an opportunity to once again coordinate a defense. Because of how we feel about Ken as a coach, we understand and respect his desire to pursue the position.”

The 49ers hired Norton as an assistant defensive head coach and inside linebackers coach after he was fired as the Raiders’ defensive coordinator in November midway through his third season in Oakland.

Norton has strong ties to Seattle head coach Pete Carroll, for whom he first worked as an assistant at USC from 2004 to 2009. Norton followed Carroll to Seattle and was the Seahawks’ linebackers coach from 2010 to 2014. Shurmur to Giants? Pat Shurmur is poised to become head coach of the Giants, according to NFL Network. The Vikings’ offensive coordinator still has to finish the playoff run with his team, but according to the network’s source, the Giants will offer him the job when he becomes available. Shurmur is expected to accept it. Mularkey fired: The Titans split with head coach Mike Mularkey after he revived a team with the NFL’s worst record over two seasons and led them to their first playoff victory in 14 years. Tennessee announced the move two days after a 35-14 loss to New England in the AFC divisional round. Mularkey had one year left on his contract. He is the first coach let go after winning a game in the preceding postseason since the 49ers fired Steve Mariucci after the 2002 season. Briefly: A person familiar with the negotiations said the Colts are close to reaching a deal that would make New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels their next head coach . ... The coaching staffs of the Steelers and Saints have been selected to work the Pro Bowl on Jan. 28 . ... Seattle cornerback Jeremy Lane was arrested on investigation of driving under the influence.