Kyle Shanahan coaching tree: 49ers head coach has budding branch following in father’s footsteps

The apple never leaves the tree.

Kyle Shanahan has established himself as one of the best coaches in the NFL during his head coaching career. His 49ers are still chasing that elusive championship ring, but are finding success thanks to his offense. Oh, and the defense is decent too.

Defensive coordinator Demeko Lyons let the 49ers’ D hum on all cylinders this year. As we know, the NFL is a copycat league, so everyone wants a part of Shanahan’s success.

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Much like his father Mike, the young Shanahan has already helped build an NFL head coach and assistant, with more in the pipeline, continuing the Shanahan dynasty across the NFL.

Here’s how a young Shanahan tree is starting to bloom.

Kyle Shanahan Coaching Tree

Robert Saleh

team: new york jets
Year: 2021-Present

Saleh gained a reputation for being a passionate and passionate coach on the sidelines, but in press conferences for being an intelligent and well-spoken footballer. However, it has yet to find much success. The Jets missed the 2022 playoffs despite starting 6-3, including a 6-game losing streak to end the season. The Jets are looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2010, and Saleh is the focus of attention for the 2023 season.

Mike McDaniel

team: miami dolphins
Year: 2022-Present

With Mike Ruffler’s move to the Jets, McDaniel was San Francisco’s only OC in 2021. NFC Championship his nine to his game appearances.

Led by Tua Tagovailoa’s third-year developmental jump, McDaniel’s strong attack in Miami earned him a playoff appearance in his first year at the helm. He needs to continue to build on that going forward, and the presence of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle certainly helps.

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others

Demeko Lyons

team: San Francisco 49ers, DC
Year: 2021-Present

Former linebackers, the Ryans took over an already elite defensive unit led by Robert Saleh and turned them into an all-world unit. He’s been interviewed by head coaches in Houston, Indianapolis, Arizona, and Denver, so there’s a good chance he’ll get a job this cycle.

Mike Ruffler

team: new york jets
Year: 2021-2022

As part of a tandem with Mike McDaniel, Lafleur helped build the 49ers’ offense to a 2019 Super Bowl berth. Although Lafleur showed promise with the Jets, he was “allowed to pursue other opportunities” after his showing offensively in 2022 did not fare well. The Rams and Sean McVay are reportedly interested in adding him to their staff as offensive coordinator.