Robert Saleh Returns to 49ers as Defensive Coordinator

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers announced Thursday the hiring of Robert Saleh as their new defensive coordinator, marking a reunion with the team where he previously built one of the NFL’s top defenses. Saleh, 45, returns to the 49ers after a three-plus-year stint as head coach of the New York Jets.

During his time with the Jets, Saleh’s defenses ranked among the league’s best, finishing first in passing yards allowed per game (178.9) and opponent yards per play (4.7) from 2022 to 2023. His unit also recorded 93 sacks and 29 interceptions during that span, tied for eighth and 10th in the NFL, respectively. Saleh’s leadership helped develop standout players like cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive lineman Quinnen Williams, both of whom earned First-Team All-Pro honors under his guidance.

Saleh previously served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, where he orchestrated a defense that ranked third in passing yards allowed per game (211.4) and fourth in total defense (323.6). In 2019, he was named Coordinator of the Year by Sporting News and led the 49ers to Super Bowl LIV with a defense that ranked first in passing yards allowed per game (169.2) and second in total defense (281.8).

“Robert brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success,” said 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan in a statement. “We’re excited to have him back and look forward to the impact he’ll have on our team.”

Saleh’s return comes after a challenging tenure with the Jets, where he was fired in October 2024 following a 2-3 start to the season. He later joined the Green Bay Packers as an offensive consultant for the remainder of the year. Prior to his time with the Jets, Saleh held coaching roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks, and Houston Texans, where he began his NFL career in 2005.

The 49ers also considered other candidates for the defensive coordinator position, including Detroit Lions defensive passing game coordinator Deshea Townsend and 49ers assistant head coach Brandon Staley. However, Saleh’s familiarity with Shanahan’s system and his past success with the team made him the top choice.

Saleh, a Dearborn, Mich., native, played tight end at Northern Michigan University before transitioning to coaching. He and his wife, Sanaa, have seven children.