Some players surprised at 49ers' final choice
February 12, 2003
Mercury News
Some 49ers players were caught off-guard upon hearing that their new coach was Dennis Erickson. But what little they know of him is positive.
``It was a little bit surprising only because we didn't hear about this man during the interview process,'' cornerback Jason Webster said.
Webster doesn't know Erickson, who is joining the 49ers after a successful four-year tour as Oregon State's head coach.
``But I do know that he's a good coach and that's what is most important,'' Webster said.
Running back Terry Jackson was also surprised and said he knew of Erickson only by reputation.
``But he's won a couple of national championships at Miami so he's doing something right,'' Jackson said.
Webster's thoughts immediately turned to defensive coordinator Jim Mora.
``I'm concerned about it and with how he's feeling and how he's taking it,'' Webster said of Mora, the only assistant of former coach Steve Mariucci who was considered for the head-coaching job.
Mora, who has a year left on his contract with the team, has not ruled out remaining as the 49ers' defensive coordinator but also could wind up in Carolina or possibly Detroit, where Mariucci is now the coach.
Quarterback Jeff Garcia, who had criticized the 49ers' nearly monthlong coaching search as lacking direction, did not return a phone message. Wide receiver Terrell Owens also could not be reached for comment.
Erickson is expected to inherit the core of Mariucci's offensive staff and continue running the West Coast system, though he could add some wrinkles. The 49ers have used variations of the system since Bill Walsh first brought it to the team in 1979.
Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp was recently signed to an extension and offensive-line coach Pat Morris and quarterbacks coach Ted Tollner have deals running through next season.
General Manager Terry Donahue has said he would recommend to the incoming coach that Knapp, Tollner, and Morris be retained along with secondary coach Brett Maxie.
Tell us what you think on the new 49ers Clubhouse message board.
