Report: 49ers hire Jim O'Neil as defensive coordinator

The San Francisco 49ers hired Jim O'Neil as their defensive coordinator, a league source told Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area.

O'Neil previously served as Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator from 2014-15.

The 37-year-old has also worked for the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills as a positional coach.

The Browns ranked in the bottom third of most defensive categories during the 2015 season.

It'll be fascinating to see how O'Neil works in conjunction with new head coach Chip Kelly as the 49ers undergo a massive overhaul entering 2016.

O'Neil was well-regarded during his time as the Bills' linebacker coach, which the 49ers will hope translates in his new, increased capacity.