Troy Aikman would try to lure Kyle Shanahan from 49ers if running NFL team

Aikman names his first call

During a Thursday appearance on The Ticket’s The Musers in Dallas, Aikman discussed the possibility of joining an NFL front office. He said he would contact the 49ers first to ask what it would take to hire Shanahan.

Aikman argued that coaching has a meaningful effect on an organization. He has identified Shanahan as a coach he would want to hire before, including in 2022, when a move seemed less likely.

Cowboys role remains possible

Jerry Jones has said it is “very possible” that Aikman could take on a significant role with the Cowboys. The two have expressed interest in working together, though they are not currently doing so.

Different views on coaching

Aikman praised San Francisco as well-coached, disciplined and physical. He said the team’s best players set the tone, enforce standards in the locker room and help hold teammates accountable.

The comments also highlight a potential disagreement with Jones. Jones recently said that paying a head coach does not correlate with winning, while Aikman has indicated he would be willing to give up significant assets to get Shanahan.