Move over, Chip Kelly and Mike Pettine: Jim Tomsula is joining the unemployment line.
The San Francisco 49ers head coach was fired by the team Sunday night at the conclusion of its 5-11 season, Tomsula’s first at the helm of the organization.
“Jimmy has been a valuable member of the 49ers organization for the last nine years,” 49ers CEO Jed York said in a statement released by the team. “We all know he is a man of high character, and his contributions on the field and in our community have always been greatly appreciated. This entire organization is proud and grateful to have worked so closely alongside Jimmy. We all wish him and his family great success in the future.”
It has to be tough news for Tomsula, who worked his way up the chain in San Francisco before replacing Jim Harbaugh as head coach last offseason. Five wins seemed a nearly miraculous result, given the controversies the team faced this season.
From injuries to surprise retirements to quarterback Colin Kaepernick regressing and being replaced by Blaine Gabbert, the 49ers at one point seemed a lock for the worst record in the NFL. The team became competitive when Gabbert took over and seemed to be heading in the right direction.
Leashes are short in the NFL. Tomsula’s probably should’ve been a little longer, but with big names like New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton potentially on the market, the 49ers understandably moved on.
Thumbnail photo via Tim Fuller/USA TODAY Sports Images
