49ers Tap Veteran NFL Coach Bradley for Defensive Reinforcements

San Francisco, CA

The San Francisco 49ers are bolstering their defensive staff by bringing in former NFL head coach and coordinator Gus Bradley. According to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, Bradley will join the 49ers coaching staff. While Bradley’s specific role is yet to be determined, his deep familiarity with the Pete Carroll defensive system, which the 49ers are looking to implement, makes him a valuable asset.

Bradley’s experience spans multiple NFL franchises. He served as defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks alongside Pete Carroll, a stint that saw the rise of the legendary “Legion of Boom” defense. He subsequently held the same role with the Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Indianapolis Colts. With the Chargers, Bradley guided a unit that ranked among the league’s elite in points allowed in 2017 and 2018.

Current 49ers assistant head coach Brandon Staley, who also possesses a role similar to Bradley’s, boasts a different defensive background. Bradley’s addition introduces a seasoned voice to the defensive coaching room, aiming to help the 49ers revitalize their defensive performance after a challenging 2024 season.

Last year, Bradley’s Colts defense, though ranked 29th in yards allowed and 24th in points allowed, excelled in takeaways, finishing seventh in the league. This aligns with a key area where the 49ers struggled in 2024, highlighting the potential impact Bradley could have on the team’s defensive strategy.