Former 49ers DC Robert Saleh could return to San Francisco after his Jets tenure, with Kyle Shanahan eyeing a familiar leader to restore defensive dominance.
The San Francisco 49ers might be turning to a familiar face to lead their defense in 2025. According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, the team is expected to offer their defensive coordinator position to Robert Saleh, who previously held the role from 2017-2020.
Saleh, recently fired as the New York Jets head coach and currently serving as an offensive consultant with the Green Bay Packers, could be poised for a return to the organization where he first made his mark as a defensive coordinator. Under Kyle Shanahan’s guidance, Saleh transformed the 49ers’ defense into one of the NFL’s most formidable units, ultimately helping lead the team to Super Bowl LIV.
Former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Oct. 6, 2024.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The potential reunion comes at a crucial time for San Francisco, as they look to strengthen a defense that faced significant challenges in 2024. The 49ers are searching for their second defensive coordinator in as many years, following Nick Sorensen’s tenure.
“Bringing Saleh back would be a massive win for this organization,” says an NFL defensive analyst who spoke on condition of anonymity. “He knows the personnel, understands Shanahan’s philosophy, and has proven he can maximize the talent on that side of the ball.”
However, the 49ers aren’t the only team interested in Saleh’s services. Anderson reports that he has an upcoming head coaching interview with the Jacksonville Jaguars, which could complicate San Francisco’s plans. If Saleh doesn’t land the Jaguars job, a return to the Bay Area as defensive coordinator could provide an ideal platform to rebuild his head coaching credentials.
The timing might be perfect for both parties. The 49ers’ defense, despite boasting stars like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, struggled with consistency in 2024. Saleh’s experience with the team’s defensive cornerstones and his proven track record of developing young talent could help restore the unit to its former dominance.
During his previous stint with the 49ers, Saleh’s defense ranked among the NFL’s best, particularly during the 2019 season when they led the team to the Super Bowl. His aggressive, disciplined scheme and ability to adapt to personnel made him one of the league’s most respected defensive minds.
If the 49ers can secure Saleh’s return, it would represent a significant step toward addressing their defensive concerns and potentially position them for another deep playoff run in 2025.
