San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke confirmed that he has been fired by the team. He joined KNBR prior to today's game between the 49ers and Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium. Baalke chose to attend today's game because he felt that it was the right thing to do.
"This is a class organization," Baalke said as transcribed by Kevin Jones of KNBR. "You know, I've been here since 2005 and I have a lot of respect for the organization as a whole, and the ownership, the fan base. It's difficult, but it's the right thing to do."
"[The news] didn't surprise me," Baalke continued. "We've done some awfully good things. Some very successful seasons. Unfortunately regret we weren't able to bring a championship to the Bay Area, which they so deserve. I think The Faithful has been great. Wish this organization nothing but the best moving forward. I do see a bright future for them."
Baalke had officially served as the team's general manager since 2011. The move was widely expected given the current state of the franchise while under Baalke's control.
Head coach Chip Kelly will meet with ownership following the game and will reportedly share the same fate as Baalke. That means that the 49ers will enter their third head coach search in as many years.