How 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan impressed Richard Sherman – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

Former All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman knows Kyle Shanahan is unlike a majority of NFL coaches. 

Why? 

That’s because, according to the former 49ers star, San Francisco’s eight-year coach is meticulous – perhaps even overly meticulous – when it comes to his profession.

“I think what separates Kyle Shanahan from other coaches in this league is preparation,” Sherman said.

“Just like anyone else that is great at what they do, there’s a little bit of madness and obsession to them. He’s obsessed with the game. He’s obsessed with the players. He’s obsessed with how he can impact the game in a positive way and put his players in a position to be successful.” 

Since joining the 49ers in 2017, Shanahan has led San Francisco to a 70-62 record while appearing in two Super Bowls and four NFC Championship Games.

Despite the 2024 season turning out to be a low point for Shanahan, with San Francisco finishing 6-11, last in the NFC West and without a playoff appearance, the former 49ers cornerback recognizes that his former coach continues to chase glory.

“Everything that a coach can do to put his team in position to be as successful as they can be, I can guarantee you Kyle Shanahan is doing or attempting to do,” Sherman added.

“He also injects confidence into his players. He has a lot of respect and regard for his players. He has a lot of expectations for them, and I think he got it from his dad and being around the game for a long time.” 

Heading into his ninth season as the head of a talent-laden team, Shanahan, as always, will look to bring the long-desired sixth Vince Lombardi Trophy to the Bay Area. 

Sherman can also guarantee that. 

 “He has a lot of respect for what goes into playing this game and what goes into executing at a high level,” Sherman concluded. “So, he takes some of the burden himself but, he also expects a lot from his best guys.”

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