Shanahan took on his typical preseason head-coaching role, which does not include play-calling. As was the case last year, that responsibility went to offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak, who will call the plays throughout the preseason. Shanahan will resume those duties in the regular season.
So, for the head coach, Thursday night's game was not much different from last year's preseason opener.
"I didn't call a play last year in preseason, so it really felt the same as last year," Shanahan said. "I have a lot of confidence in Klay. He does as good of a job as anyone I've been around at it. So, nothing new today."
The July 14 car accident left Shanahan with a broken nose, three broken ribs, and a broken left hand. The coach was still wearing a protective brace over his injured hand on Thursday night.
Shanahan also suffered a severe concussion in the accident, which limited his role at the start of 49ers training camp. He has gradually ramped up his workload and felt well enough to coach from the sidelines against the Titans.
As for returning to the sidelines after going through such an ordeal, Shanahan said the experience felt much like being back at practice.
"I know everyone knows I missed some things, and haven't been calling plays as much, but I don't really do that in the preseason anyways," Shanahan said. "So, it's felt pretty normal, on a pretty normal schedule. Missed some of the media stuff, missed some of the hours. It's not exactly consistent, but football's been pretty normal for me."
With Shanahan back on the sideline Thursday night and taking questions from reporters after the game, everything appears to be pointing toward the 49ers head coach being ready for the start of the regular season.
The 49ers will open the regular season against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, in Week 1, giving Shanahan several more weeks to continue his recovery before the games begin to count.
Nobody's perfect. Did you find a mistake in this article? Report it.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
What Kyle Shanahan and others said after 49ers' 19-13 loss vs. Titans
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and several others spoke with reporters after Thursday night's 19-13 preseason loss to the Tennessee Titans. Here is what they said. Transcripts provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications staff. Head Coach Kyle... -
Kyle Shanahan, Brock Purdy share updates after 49ers-Titans joint practice
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy spoke with reporters after Tuesday's joint practice with the Tennessee Titans. Here's everything they had to say. Transcripts provided by the San Francisco 49ers Communications staff. Head Coach Kyle... -
49ers' Kyle Shanahan plans to coach preseason opener, learned not to fully trust Tesla Autopilot
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan continues to experience symptoms from the severe concussion he suffered in a July 14 car accident. On Saturday, Shanahan spoke to reporters for the first time since the incident and revealed that he is still dealing with headaches... -
Crucial 49ers training camp battle receives update from Kyle Shanahan
One of the most important San Francisco 49ers training camp battles is taking place along the offensive line. Every starting position except one appears to be settled, with left guard remaining the lone question mark. Casual observers might assume veteran Robert Jones is the...