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Why Raheem Morris has quickly become a ‘great fit’ with 49ers as DC

The San Francisco 49ers have found their defensive identity under Raheem Morris, who took over as defensive coordinator mid-season after a decade-long reunion with head coach Kyle Shanahan. Morris, a former Atlanta Falcons head coach with extensive experience as a playcaller and assistant since 1998, has quickly turned the unit around despite early skepticism about scheme adjustments.

Through five games, the defense has thrived, ranking third in EPA allowed per play and points per game, even while facing tough opponents like the Rams, Broncos, and Seahawks. Injuries have decimated the defensive line, forcing the 49ers to rely on rookies and late additions like Osa Odighizuwa, who leads the team with 15 pressures and a 12.8 pass-rush win rate, and Keion White, a former Patriots second-round pick now second on the team in pressures with eight defensive stops.

Shanahan praised Morris’ impact, calling him one of the best coaches he’s worked with and crediting him for boosting the confidence of the secondary, which has played at an elite level since training camp. Gracen Halton, a rookie, has also stepped up impressively, improving each week despite the unit’s heavy reliance on young talent and stopgap signings.

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