On Sunday, Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area reported that the 49ers want Rathman to return, but it is unknown what role he would serve. Maiocco points out that Shanahan could bring Falcons running backs coach Bobby Turner with him.
Shanahan is expected to be named the new head coach of the 49ers as early as Monday and that's when the team will begin aggressively building their coaching staff. Shanahan will join new general manager John Lynch, who joined the 49ers a week ago.
Following Rathman's first stint with the 49ers as an assistant coach, he followed head coach Steve Mariucci in 2003 to the Detroit Lions. Rathman also served as the running backs coach for the Oakland Raiders from 2006 until 2008. As a player, Rathman was part of two 49ers Super Bowl teams (XXIII, XXIV).
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