Special teams coach leaves after three seasons to take a job with Parcells

Defensive coordinator Jim Mora said "everything was just good" about a meeting he had with 49ers owner representative John York and general manager Terry Donahue, who have spent the past two days talking individually with 49ers assistants after Wednesday's firing of coach Steve Mariucci.

Asked if it was a job evaluation or more of an interview for the head coaching job, Mora said: "It was a combination of, 'Here we are right now, here's where we're going.' They did a nice job. I have no problem with anything (they discussed). Hopefully I'll get a shot (at becoming coach). I don't know what's going to happen."

While Mora is under contract for the 2003 season, offensive coordinator Greg Knapp's contract expires at the end of this month. Knapp, the 49ers' primary play-caller in his two seasons as offensive coordinator, said York and Donahue were "really pleased with what we did" this season. York said Wednesday that "everybody is happy with Greg's progress."

As for whether he voiced any interest in replacing Mariucci, Knapp said: "I expressed initially, 'I'm a young guy (39) and when the time comes, it will come. If the time's now, great. If not, don't worry about my feelings getting hurt.'"

Special teams coach Bruce DeHaven left the 49ers to accept the same job with the Dallas Cowboys under new head coach Bill Parcells. DeHaven, a Livermore resident, coached the 49ers special teams the past three years.

The 49ers announced they have given linebackers coach Richard Smith, a Pleasanton resident, and secondary coach Brett Maxie permission to speak with other teams. Smith is under contract through the end of the month. and Maxie through next season.

The contracts of Tom Rathman (running backs), Tom Batta (tight ends), George Stewart (receivers) and Dwaine Board (defensive line) expire at the end of this month.

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