Robert Saleh Expected to Return as 49ers Defensive Coordinator

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers are poised to bring back Robert Saleh as their defensive coordinator, according to league sources. Saleh, who was fired as head coach of the New York Jets in October, is expected to rejoin the team where he first established his reputation as a defensive mastermind.

Saleh, 44, served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, transforming the unit into one of the league’s most dominant defenses. His return comes after a tumultuous tenure with the Jets, where he compiled a 20-36 record over three-plus seasons but struggled to find consistency at quarterback.

“I believe it’s a much harder one to go against,” 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said of Saleh’s defensive system during his initial tenure. “Saleh’s a guy we should feel fortunate to have.”

Saleh’s defensive philosophy, characterized by an aggressive “all gas, no brake” approach, helped the 49ers reach Super Bowl LIV in the 2019 season. That year, the defense ranked first in the league in passing yards allowed (169.2 per game) and recorded 48 sacks.

Despite his struggles in New York, Saleh remained a sought-after candidate this offseason. He was considered a frontrunner for the Jacksonville Jaguars‘ head coaching vacancy before Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen emerged as the favorite. Saleh canceled a second interview with the Jaguars after Coen’s candidacy gained momentum.

With the 49ers, Saleh will inherit a defense that has shown signs of decline since his departure. The team allowed a 100-yard rusher in nearly every game during the 2024 season and failed to record a sack in four of its final six contests. Shanahan has emphasized the need for a coordinator who can adapt to injuries, a challenge Saleh faced during his time with the Jets.

Saleh’s potential return also raises questions about the future of the 49ers’ defensive staff. Key assistants, including defensive line coach Kris Kocurek and linebackers coach Johnny Holland, previously worked under Saleh and are expected to remain in their roles.

As the 49ers await Saleh’s official hiring, speculation has emerged about alternative candidates, including former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. However, Saleh remains the clear frontrunner to lead the defense in 2025.