SINGLETARY HIRES HIS NEPHEW

Former Detroit News columnist Rob Parker might be pitching a freelance story on the 49ers’ inside linebackers if San Francisco’s defense struggles next season. Ex-Lions coach Rod Marinelli being mocked for nepotism for keeping his son-in-law as defensive coordinator didn’t prevent Singletary from hiring his nephew. Vantz Singletary, who has been a college assistant coach for 17 years, will take over coaching inside linebackers after his Hall of Fame uncle’s promotion to head coach. “Vantz has had a tremendous career . . . as a collegiate coach,” Mike Singletary said in a statement, per the San Francisco Chronicle. “I am confident . . . that will translate into success as he embarks on his NFL coaching career.” Vantz Singletary’s experience includes stints at Buffalo, Tennessee-Chattanooga, Hawaii, Southern and Trinity College. He coached 49ers defensive lineman Isaac Sopoaga at Hawaii. [Editor’s note: Hopefully Mike Singletary never will be asked whether he wishes his brother had married a woman who had given birth to a better inside linebackers coach.]