In 2014 the 49ers went 8-8 after appearing in three-straight NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. This was considered a disappointing season at the time, with a gradual decline seen in the relationship between former HC Jim Harbaugh and the front office, leading to an eventual “mutual” parting.
Then after an almost laughable coaching search in the 2014 offseason, the 49ers promoted Tomsula to HC who had no NFL head coach or even coordinator experience. The “story” was that the 49ers management had tired with Harbaugh and his “abrasive” personality, and they wanted a “teacher” to become the head coach.