The flames were fanned for a bit but the future of head coach Jim Harbuagh with the San Francisco 49ers is bleak at best.
Harbaugh’s relationship with general manager Trent Baalke has made major headlines in recent weeks with reports that the team attempted to trade him to Cleveland shortly following.
But on the other hand, the friction has gotten worse. And given the events of the past week, it’s become public. So there’s no pretending that everything is fine.
Ann Killion of the San Francisco Chronicle hears from sources that the tension is building in the lockeroom as well as in the 49ers front office.
One source with inside knowledge of the team says that Harbaugh’s act has worn thin in the locker room, particularly among some key “face of the 49ers” type players. While the team is winning, that’s not a problem. But a few losses could expose a widening rift.
John Madden believes the 49ers are better with the coach than the suit.
“It’s a lot easier to get a suit than it is to get a coach.” Madden said on KCBS.
Madden’s comments are what you would expect a former coach to say. It is also what most fans feel. Â The 49ers have made the NFC Championship game in each of he last three seasons.