Terry

McDonough

Both are meeting with prospective head coach Kyle Shanahan Saturday in Atlanta. McDonough and Paton have emerged as the lead candidates to replace Trent Baalke, but the Niners could expand their search if neither meets Shanahan’s approval. Shanahan will have a major say in who the Niners end up hiring.

He’s expected to interview Saturday in Atlanta along with Falcons OC Kyle Shanahan, who is expected to be announced as the 49ers’ new head coach. It looks like the Niners’ GM search is down to two finalists: McDonough and Vikings assistant GM George Paton. McDonough has 25 years of scouting experience and has been with the Cardinals in his current role since 2014. His brother is ESPN Monday Night Football announcer Sean McDonough.

Both are scheduled to meet on Saturday with presumptive head coach Kyle Shanahan, who is expected to have a large say in the final hire. McDonough reportedly told the 49ers his No. 1 choice for a coach would be Shanahan. Paton is also a candidate for the Colts’ GM opening and would likely choose the situation with a franchise quarterback over the 49ers. After a drawn-out process, it seems likely San Francisco finally hires someone this weekend.

The news comes straight from McDonough. McDonough was a finalist for the 49ers’ GM opening earlier this year and is certain to be in consideration for other jobs in the future, but the lengthy extension could mean he will take a back seat on the carousel during the next couple cycles.