Top 3 49ers Thriving with Raheem Morris’s Leadership

The San Francisco 49ers are poised for significant changes in their defensive strategy with the arrival of Raheem Morris as their new defensive coordinator. This transition marks the first major alteration since 2019 when the team first embraced a four-man Wide 9 front under former defensive line coach Kris Kocurek. Morris, however, is known for preferring five-man fronts, which could bring a fresh approach to the team’s defensive alignment.

49ers Under Raheem Morris: Key Players to Watch

The shift in defensive philosophy is expected to benefit several players on the 49ers roster. Here are three athletes who are likely to thrive under Morris’s leadership:

1. Mykel Williams

Mykel Williams is set to return to his roots as a defensive tackle. Predominantly playing in a five-man front during his college career, Williams struggled to adapt as a defensive end in the Wide 9 scheme. In his rookie season, he faced double-teams, limiting his effectiveness as a pass rusher. With Morris’s preference for five-man fronts, Williams could see more one-on-one matchups, maximizing his pass-rushing potential.

2. Deommodore Lenoir

Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir signed a lucrative five-year deal worth $88.8 million, demonstrating the team’s confidence in his abilities. Lenoir’s versatility allows him to play effectively both on the outside and in the slot. Under the previous coaching staff, he was limited to the left sideline, which reduced his impact. Morris’s history of allowing his top cornerback to shadow the opponent’s primary receiver may finally provide Lenoir the opportunity he has long desired.

3. Upton Stout

At 5-foot-8, Upton Stout may be undersized for a traditional cornerback role, but he brings unique skills as a nickelback. Known for his ability to cover well despite his height, Stout also possesses a linebacker-like hitting ability and demonstrated proficiency as a blitzer. The previous coaching regime rarely utilized blitzes, limiting Stout’s potential. With Morris’s aggressive defensive style, Stout is expected to emerge as one of the 49ers’ key pass-rushing threats in the 2026 season.

Defensive Changes Ahead

The coaching staff changes, particularly with Morris at the helm, herald a new era for the 49ers defense. With strategic adjustments in both the front and back end, the team looks to revitalize its performance. The upcoming season promises to showcase the full impact of these shifts as players like Williams, Lenoir, and Stout leverage their strengths under Morris’s guidance.