Report: 49ers reach out to Arizona Cardinals about defensive coordinator Todd Bowles

It’s no secret Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles is a top NFL head-coaching candidate.

On Monday, a report said Bowles has generated interest from a division rival.

ESPN’s Josina Anderson said the San Francisco 49ers’ candidates to replace outgoing head coach Jim Harbaugh include the Cards’ second-year assistant.

Source: The #49ers have requested interviews with Cardinals defensive coordinator Todd Bowles and Seahawks DC Dan Quinn.

— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) December 29, 2014

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said the 49ers have also asked permission to speak with Denver Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase.

Previous reports have the Atlanta Falcons, New York Jets and Chicago Bears possibly interested in Bowles. On Monday, the Jets fired head coach Rex Ryan and general manager John Idzik, the Bears ousted head coach Marc Trestman and GM Phil Emery, and the Falcons fired head coach Mike Smith.

Per NFL rules, teams aren’t allowed to speak with assistants whose teams have a playoff game in the opening round. The Cardinals will face the Carolina Panthers in the wild-card round Saturday.

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