As the 49ers search for their next head coach, they’ll need to consider multiple factors.
Do they want somebody older and more proven? Or someone young and untested but full of potential? Should he be offensive-minded or defensive-minded? Should he be a disciplinarian or a so-called players’ coach? Should he be from outside the organization or one of two or three highly qualified assistant coaches aready with the team?
But one thing that should be paramount when general manager Trent Baalke and CEO Jed York interview and evaluate candidates is this:
How effective will the new coach be in getting the most out of quarterback Colin Kaepernick?
Because Kaepernick is the future of this franchise. The 49ers committed to a long-term deal with the young QB before last season, and it was certainly justified. This is the player who is the face and future of this franchise.
In 2½ seasons as a starter, he has a 24-14 record and has led his team to two NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl. He had a strong bond with former head coach Jim Harbaugh. He’s a dynamic, two-threat player with a rifle arm and incredibly fast feet.
Even in a season in which he regressed in 2014 – his interceptions and sacks increased greatly -- he still set career highs for completion percentage, passing yards, passing yards per game and rushing yards.
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So, the 49ers absolutely, positively, must bring in a head coach who is willing to work with Kaepernick, adjust his thinking and schemes to best utilize his talents and be able to form a bond with the QB to help him reach greater heights. Because if Kaepernick can thrive, so too can the 49ers offense.
In too many situations around the NFL, new head coaches have come in and tried to force their systems on talented QBs already on the roster. If the 49ers bring in a long-in-the-tooth head coach such as Mike Shanahan or an offensive assistant such as Josh McDaniels of the Patriots – who favored Tim Tebow over Jay Cutler in Denver – it’s hard to believe Kaepernick would flourish.
That could be disastrous for the Niners’ future. As Sports Illustrated’s Doug Farrar tweeted Monday: “If the 49ers hire Josh McDaniels to replace Jim Harbaugh that wouldHAHAHAHAHAHABWHAHAHAHAHAOHMYGOD.”
Kaepernick, of course, will have to adapt, work with and listen to his next head coach. The coach is the boss, not the player, and it’s up to the player to do what’s best for the team.
But Baalke and York can’t bring in a head coach who will force Kaepernick into playing certain ways that don’t get the most out of his talent.
If they do, this franchise is doomed for a giant step backward.
