Mike Nolan will return for his fourth season with the 49ers, despite of the disappointing evolution, better yet, involution, of his team. The former personnel executive Scot McCloughan was promoted to general manager. The newly re-appointed coach said in a news conference in Santa Clara, California, that he is leaving the personnel decisions to McCloughan.

“I will remain the face of the organization, and the face. I don’t believe it will change at all. The important thing is that we will maintain the relationship. We’ll still communicate on all issues. I’m not disappointed at all. I was in favor of it. I’ve been in favor of it for a long time,” said Nolan, also adding that he “will not have the trigger on the personnel changes.”

However, with all the contract extension and promotions, offensive coordinator Jim Hostler was fired as Nolan requested. Nolan said about this move that Hostler was “held accountable, as well as we are. As I am.”

49ers are looking for a new offensive coordinator, with NFL experience, and rumors point at Brian Billick, fired from Ravens. Nolan and Billick have known each other from Baltimore, when Billick was his boss. Besides Billick, Mike Martz could have also made the list, after the Detroit Lions fired him, but both alternatives would cost the 49ers almost as much as Nolan makes, around $1.6 million.

It’s a complete mystery what made the Yorks grant Nolan another chance, after the 16-32 ‘record’ and the longest streak of losing in the 49ers history. Apparently, firing Hostler should fix everything, but that still remains to be seen. In the meantime, John York said he has been planning on promoting McCloughan as general manager for three years. So, as everything seems to go according to plan, what do the 49ers have in store for its fans in the upcoming season?