McDermott, 42, had been the Panthers' defensive coordinator since 2011. Before that, he was with the Philadelphia Eagles serving as their defensive coordinator and secondary coach. This past season, his defense ranked 12th in points allowed, 13th in total yards allowed, 13th against the pass, and 15th against the run.
In 2015, during Carolina's Super Bowl run season, McDermott's defense ranked 6th in points allowed, 6th in total yards allowed, 11th against the pass, and 4th against the run.
As far as head coach candidates go, the 49ers have met with New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, Buffalo Bills interim head coach Anthony Lynn, Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, Washington Redskins offensive coordinator Sean McVay, and McDermott.
Seattle Seahawks assistant head coach and offensive line coach Tom Cable remains as the only known head coach candidate that the 49ers have not yet met with.
The remaining teams with head coach vacancies are the 49ers, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams. This week, the Rams had a second interview with McVay, who the 49ers met with on Monday.