NFL rumors: 49ers checked in on hiring Steve Spagnuolo away from KC

They say if you can't beat 'em, join 'em and that's apparently what the San Francisco 49ers have been trying to do concerning the Kansas City Chiefs after losing to them in Super Bowl 58.

Even before going down for the second Super Bowl in the last five seasons to K.C., the Niners began Super Bowl week by complaining about potential holding calls or the state of their practice field—basically crying to anyone who would listen in the hopes of gaining sympathy.

In the aftermath of the loss, they've taken to spending as much time with the Chiefs as possible.

The 49ers first interviewed Dave Merritt, the Chiefs defensive backs coach, for their defensive coordinator opening before giving the job to an internal hire. Then we recently learned that they actually sought out the Chiefs' own DC himself for a lateral move since his contract was coming up.

According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Niners tried to hire Steve Spagnuolo away from the Chiefs following the season knowing his contract was up. Russini says the Chiefs worked quickly to get a new extension done and sources say it's worth $5 million per season.

For the Chiefs, keeping Spags was a big move toward a potential three-peat and the team also worked behind-the-scenes to retain defensive line coach Joe Cullen as well. In addition, head coach Andy Reid is also due for a new contract soon enough.

As for the 49ers, we're not sure what they gleaned from all their time spent with the Chiefs coaches but it's a better move than just complaining about a loss before it happens.