It was almost a certainty that San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York would be addressing the media in some fashion next week. Today, York confirmed that he would formally speak to the media.
#49ers CEO Jed York, in informal chat with media outside locker room, said he'll formally talk to media next week. Last spoke: season opener
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) December 29, 2016
What is uncertain is what will occur prior to the press conference. Will general manager Trent Baalke still be employed by the team? Will head coach Chip Kelly? Baalke is widely believed to be this year's scapegoat and is likely the man that will shoulder much of the blame for what is currently a two-win season. After all, the roster is his responsibility and since multiple NFC Championship game appearances and a Super Bowl, the roster has been decimated and is widely considered to be one of the worst in the league. Baalke has even admitted to his failures at certain positions of need.
The fact that York knows he will be addressing the media would indicate that he already knows what he is going to do – if anything.
Fan dissatisfaction has been at an all-time high. Despite ticket sales for home games selling relatively well, many have chosen not to waste their time showing up for the actual games, leaving Levi's Stadium embarrassingly half empty. While that may not have had a huge financial impact this year – except for concession and merchandise sales – it will likely have a long-term impact if nothing is done. Ownership and Jed have to see that and know that a change is necessarily and the status quo will not be acceptable.
Whenever the press conference is scheduled, expect news to leak of any ownership decisions prior to that date – perhaps as early as after the 49ers' finale against the Seahawks on Sunday.
