Report: 49ers tried to hire Spagnuolo before new deal

The San Francisco 49ers attempted to land Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo before he signed a new contract with the reigning champions, a source told The Athletic's Dianna Russini.

Spagnuolo was lauded for his defensive game plan in the Chiefs' second straight Super Bowl victory against the 49ers.

San Francisco was in search of a new leader on defense after firing Steve Wilks following the defeat. After missing out on Spagnuolo, the 49ers are reportedly promoting defensive pass game specialist and nickel cornerbacks coach Nick Sorensen to defensive coordinator.

The NFC West club is reportedly also adding former Los Angeles Chargers bench boss Brandon Staley to the staff as assistant head coach.

Spagnuolo has been Kansas City's defensive coordinator since 2019, winning three Super Bowls. His unit ranked second in points allowed in both the regular season and the playoffs in 2023.