The Chiefs signed Spagnuolo to an extension just days after the Super Bowl. That quick turnaround was perhaps inspired by the 49ers' pursuit.
"San Francisco was flirting with him, thinking about bringing him in as DC," Russini said on "The Athletic Football Show" podcast.
The 49ers have yet to fill their defensive coordinator role but have been reportedly interviewed former Chargers head coach Brandon Staley, 49ers defensive passing game/nickels coach Nick Sorensen, 49ers defensive backs coach Daniel Bullocks, and most recently reported, Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt.
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Should the 49ers trade Mac Jones or retain him as a backup?
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