Former Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley didn’t have to wait long before securing a new job. After the Colts decided not to renew his contract following the conclusion of this offseason, the team hired Lou Anarumo to take over as their new defensive coordinator. Bradley’s contract had expired, and the front office ultimately chose to move in a different direction. However, despite the setback, it didn’t take Bradley long to bounce back.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Bradley landed a new opportunity with the San Francisco 49ers, just about a month after his tenure with the Colts came to an end. The exact role that Bradley will take on under head coach Kyle Shanahan has not been made clear yet, but one thing is certain: it will not be as the defensive coordinator. That position is already filled by Robert Saleh, the former head coach of the New York Jets, who now runs the 49ers’ defense.
Bradley spent three seasons as the defensive coordinator for the Colts, and while his defenses certainly weren’t the primary cause of the team’s failure to make the playoffs during that span, there were consistent issues with his defensive units. The Colts struggled with giving up points and yards, particularly later in the season. In fact, the Colts defense was often criticized for wearing down in the latter parts of games and falling short when it mattered most.
Last season, Bradley’s defense allowed the ninth-most points per game (25.1) and the fourth-most yards per game (361.2), statistics that reflect a lack of consistency and discipline. Bradley’s defensive schemes weren’t able to prevent opponents from moving the ball effectively, especially in high-pressure situations. This became particularly evident in Week 17, when the Colts allowed the New York Giants to score 45 points in a crucial must-win game. This performance likely played a significant role in the Colts’ decision not to retain Bradley.
Despite the challenges Bradley faced with the Colts, he has managed to secure another opportunity with the 49ers. This fresh start provides him with a chance to work with a new team and possibly achieve a playoff berth, depending on how well the 49ers bounce back after a disappointing season. With a fresh set of challenges ahead, Bradley will have the chance to prove himself once again, this time under the leadership of Kyle Shanahan, who is known for his offensive prowess. While Bradley’s exact responsibilities have not been fully defined, his experience and leadership on defense will likely be an asset to the 49ers in some capacity.
Bradley’s ability to quickly find a new position with a competitive team after leaving the Colts shows that he remains a respected figure in the NFL coaching community. Whether or not the 49ers make a deep playoff run in the near future, Bradley’s presence could be a key factor in helping them improve defensively. His new role could serve as an opportunity for him to redeem himself after his time in Indianapolis and prove that he can be a difference-maker on a team with high aspirations.