49ers Offer Robert Saleh Record Deal to Return as Defensive Coordinator

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers are making a bold move to stabilize their defense, offering former defensive coordinator Robert Saleh a record-breaking deal to return to the team. The 49ers are prepared to make Saleh the highest-paid defensive coordinator in NFL history, according to reports from The Athletic.

Saleh, 45, previously served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, leading two top-five defenses during his tenure. He left in 2021 to become head coach of the New York Jets but was fired after posting a 20-36 record over three seasons. Despite his struggles as a head coach, Saleh is widely regarded as one of the league’s top defensive minds.

“We will make you the highest-paid defensive coordinator in all the land if you sign with us,” a source told The Athletic’s Matt Barrows. The 49ers’ offer comes as the team seeks to address its defensive struggles, which have been exacerbated by a lack of continuity. San Francisco has cycled through three defensive coordinators in as many years, contributing to a disappointing 7-10 season in 2024.

However, Saleh’s return is not guaranteed. He is also a candidate for several head coaching vacancies, including positions with the Las Vegas Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Dallas Cowboys. “I think it’s become obvious now that it’s Saleh or bust really, because they haven’t done much work with anybody else to this point,” Barrows said on The San Francisco Standard podcast.

If Saleh declines the offer, the 49ers have identified several backup candidates. Detroit Lions defensive passing-game coordinator Deshea Townsend has already interviewed for the role. Townsend, a 13-year NFL veteran, is viewed as a rising star in coaching circles. Jeff Ulbrich, who replaced Saleh as the Jets’ defensive coordinator midseason, is also under consideration. Ulbrich, a San Jose native, played linebacker for the 49ers from 2000 to 2009.

Internally, assistant coach Brandon Staley is another option. Staley, the former Los Angeles Chargers head coach, joined the 49ers’ staff this season after being fired by Los Angeles in 2023. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has confirmed that Staley will be part of the interview process. “I’ll give Staley a shot. I just talked to him; he’s been here,” Shanahan said.

Another potential candidate is Dennis Allen, the former head coach of the Oakland Raiders and New Orleans Saints. Allen, who was fired by the Saints midway through the 2024 season, has a strong track record as a defensive coordinator, including a successful stint with the Saints from 2015 to 2021.

The 49ers’ pursuit of Saleh underscores the importance of stability on defense. If hired, Saleh would bring much-needed continuity to a unit that has struggled in recent years. However, his potential departure for a head coaching role could leave the team searching for yet another coordinator next offseason.

As the 49ers await Saleh’s decision, the team is also navigating a competitive coaching market. With multiple teams vying for top candidates, San Francisco’s ability to secure Saleh or another high-profile coordinator will be critical to its hopes of rebounding in 2025.