Part of the Jaguars’ housecleaning in the front office was Ethan Waugh‘s departure immediately following the draft. Shortly after his Jacksonville exit, though, the veteran executive seems to have his next gig lined up.
The 49ers are expected to hire Waugh, Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 reports. Provided the move officially takes place, it will represent a reunion between the parties. Prior to joining the Jaguars’ front office, Waugh worked with the 49ers.
Waugh and Trent Baalke worked alongside each other in San Francisco, so it came as no surprise when the two eventually continued their partnership in Jacksonville. After the latter’s 49ers tenure ended following the 2016 season, though, Waugh remained in place. He worked his way up to VP of player personnel before departing the team. Waugh is unlikely to hold that title again upon returning to San Francisco, but he will represent a familiar face to general manager John Lynch and Co.
Baalke appeared to be safe after the 2024 season ended, but as the Jags negotiated with Liam Coen to become their new head coach he wound up being fired. That move left Waugh to handle interim general manager duties until James Gladstone landed the full-time gig. To no surprise, Gladstone has brought in a number of ex-Rams executives in preparation for his first year at the helm.
Brian Xanders is among the veteran staffers in place with Jacksonville as the team moves forward at a number of executive and coaching positions. While that takes place, Waugh will prepare for his second San Francisco stint. The 49ers have been unusually busy in terms of working out extensions this spring, but Waugh will be able to assist with the team’s remaining priorities over the summer.