“It felt like a really difficult decision,” Kendrick said Friday after signing a one-year deal. “(The 49ers) are a great organization and a great program there. Ultimately, I wanted the opportunity to play against Mike and bet on myself. Especially at this point in my career, I have something to prove. There's a lot of things going on. If the Eels are great and great.” “They're making great moves. To be able to play with Mike with this defense and the players on this defense was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. I am very satisfied.”
Kendricks spent last year with the Chargers, but spent the previous eight years with Minnesota under Zimmer, who served as head coach from 2014 to 2021.
“The level and amount of football detail I learned from Jim was tremendous,” Kendricks said. “I think you'll never take that for granted, and that's why I'm back with him now. Just being in the facility today, it's all becoming real. To play.” I'm very excited. It's obviously a sport that I grew up with.”
When asked about Zimmer's coaching style, Kendricks said he not only admires the way Zimmer challenges his players, but also noted that he has tried on several occasions.
“Yeah, I feel like Jim and I have butted heads at some point,” Kendricks said. “Just the fact that I'm back with him tells me that I believe in him, he believes in me, and that we want to get the job done. Ultimately. Our ultimate goal is to play our best football and win championships, and that's why I'm back with him. ”
