Mangini held the job on Jim Tomsula's staff last season. He, along with Mike Vrabel, were interviewed for the position on Kelly's staff. Vrabel turned down the 49ers to remain the linebackers coach with the Houston Texans.
The 49ers defense has a lot of room for improvement. In 2015 under Mangini, the unit finished 18th in points allowed, 29th in total yards allowed, 27th in passing yards allowed, and 29th in rushing yards allowed.
Linebackers coach Jason Tarver, who remains employed by the 49ers, remains a candidate for the job along with Baltimore Ravens linebackers coach Don Martindale. Tarver has been the defensive coordinator for the Oakland Raiders while Martindale was a defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers star Fred Warner names young defensive breakout candidates
San Francisco 49ers star linebacker Fred Warner is preparing to enter his ninth NFL season. Yet it doesn't seem that long ago that he was a newcomer quickly making a name for himself on an evolving 49ers defense. Warner spoke with NBC Sports Bay Area's Jennifer Lee Chan at his... -
49ers and Maxx Crosby: Albert Breer weighs in on potential blockbuster trade
Many believe the San Francisco 49ers could benefit from adding another proven veteran pass rusher to their defensive front. While the defense will welcome back Nick Bosa and expects 2025 first-round pick Mykel Williams to return to the lineup at some point, the team could still... -
Dominick Puni named 49ers' under-the-radar breakout candidate for 2026
The San Francisco 49ers have several players who could emerge as breakout performers in 2026. Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is entering his third NFL season and looking to establish himself as a major contributor within the offense. Defensive end Mykel Williams, the team's 2025... -
49ers announce running back roster moves
The San Francisco 49ers have signed running back Sincere McCormick to a one-year deal. To make room on the roster, the team waived running back Jordan Mims. The 49ers Communications staff provided the following rundown. McCormick (5-8, 204) originally entered the NFL after...