Rumor Mill: Holmgren back in San Francisco?

At this point, it's only a rumor. And some league insiders don't buy it.

Still, the rumor is making its way along the NFL grapevine, and so we put it here.

The talk is that Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren, whom many believe will retire from coaching after the current season, could land in San Fran in a role similar to Bill Parcells' new position with the Dolphins.

The only problem with this possibility is that Holmgren is under contract through the 2008 season. We can't imagine the Seahawks agreeing to let Holmgren jump to a division rival, in any capacity.

As one league insider pointed out, it makes no sense for the 49ers to be copying the Dolphins' approach before there's any proof that the approach will work. Then again, the presence of an NFL elder statesman as an overseer of the G.M. and the head coach could catch on. Though most guys on the wrong side of 65 don't want to grind it out, they have plenty of experience and wisdom to contribute to the effort.

Holmgren previously served as coach and G.M. in Seattle, but gave up the G.M. title after several seasons of unfulfilled expectations. He was the offensive coordinator of the 49ers before becoming the head coach of the Packers in 1992.

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