Earlier this week, the former 49er left tackle, who made six Pro Bowls in his career and was named to the NFL's 2010-2019 All-Decade Team, was seen at the 49ers-Chargers joint practice, as it was a close distance from where he currently resides.
With the offensive lineman being one of the smartest players of his team, it certainly wouldn't be shocking if he became an NFL coach, especially for the only team he played for in his career: the 49ers.
On the radio show, Shanahan expressed that he would be excited if it were to happen, but didn't provide a timetable as to when Staley would potentially approach the decision.
"I would think [that Staley enough money not to work coaching hours]. I love football, but if you really want to be in football and you have that type of money already put away, go enjoy coaching high school and hopefully live in the same city and let your kids be there forever. But, there's a thing about having a passion for [football] and wanting to do it at this level."
While Shanahan noted that the former lineman turned down his coaching offer in January, Shanahan did indicate that Staley's decision could come sooner than later due to Staley wanting to just be around the game.
"Joe's someone whom I looked into this January asking if he'd be interested, and he said it was too early for him, but I know the longer he sits out, the more he misses it. I think he just wanted to come up this week and get an idea for what we're doing and he's been great," Shanahan said. "I love Joe. [He was] such a good football player and he was a freak of a talent, but also his mind [was amazing]. He was an extremely smart player who added a lot to this team and helped a lot of people and I know the more he gets into it, he'll be really good at it. You just got to see if that's really what he wants to do.
With Staley living in Encinitas, California with his family currently, it could require significant persuasion to bring the former 49er back to the team, but Staley's own desires may accelerate that decision.
When do you think, if at all, Staley will turn to the coaching ranks?
You can listen to the entire conversation with Shanahan below.
Written By:
Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
All articles by Rohan Chakravarthi
Rohan Chakravarthi
Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
All articles by Rohan Chakravarthi
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' Robert Saleh shares candid thoughts on coaching future
The San Francisco 49ers are enjoying a much-needed bye week, and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh used part of the break to appear on Josina Anderson's podcast, The Exhibit. With San Francisco's defense improving week after week and helping the team achieve a 9-4 record... -
49ers' John Lynch shares encouraging update on Fred Warner's recovery
The loss of linebacker Fred Warner has been one of the most significant setbacks of the San Francisco 49ers' 2025 season—a campaign already defined by adversity and injuries. Warner suffered a dislocated and fractured right ankle in Week 6 and is expected to miss the... -
Kyle Shanahan previews 49ers-Titans Week 15 matchup
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reporters ahead of Wednesday's practice as the team gears up for its Week 15 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Here's everything he said. Transcript provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications staff. Opening... -
Kyle Shanahan recalls 49ers' talks with Philip Rivers—and what it meant for Brock Purdy
The San Francisco 49ers stayed in touch with Philip Rivers throughout the 2022 season—just in case the veteran quarterback was needed. After injuries sidelined Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo, the depth chart grew thin, and an inexperienced rookie by the name Brock Purdy...