Saleh Calls Jaguars’ Offense ‘Elite’ in Signal-Stealing Tactics Ahead of Game

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the undefeated San Francisco 49ers prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the 2-1 Jacksonville Jaguars, defensive coordinator Robert Saleh addressed the media Thursday, highlighting the challenges posed by the Jaguars’ offensive strategies.

Saleh praised Jaguars head coach Liam Coen and his staff for having a “legally advanced signal-stealing type system” that consistently places them in advantageous situations on the field. “Jacksonville is a very young but very talented group,” Saleh said. “They do a great job of forming their plays to find any nugget they can use against us. We have to be vigilant with our signals and communication to counter any tells we might give off during the game.”

Coen, in his first year as head coach, responded to Saleh’s comments, emphasizing his team’s focus on the upcoming game rather than any controversy. “I’m not going to speak on that fully right now,” Coen said. “We have a huge game coming up this weekend against a great defense, and that’s where our mindset is.”

When prompted about the importance of deciphering opponents’ signals, Coen explained that his coaching staff works diligently on game planning by evaluating formations, shifts, and pre-snap motions. “Those are the things you’re trying to do as a coach to put your players in the best position to be successful,” Coen continued. “It’s a lot of hard work that goes into game planning and trying to create opportunities on the field.”

Saleh reiterated that there is nothing illegal about the Jaguars’ methods, stating, “It’s just that this group is particularly good at it.” He recalled facing similar tactics last season as head coach of the New York Jets against the Minnesota Vikings. “You can see it on tape when they’re studying. It’s like, ‘Damn, how’d they know to be in that call at that time?'”

The Jaguars offense, featuring players who have ties to the Vikings and the Rams, has used a variety of personnel and motion to keep defenses guessing. According to analyses, the Jaguars have a balanced distribution of formations and run-pass splits, making it hard for defenses to predict their plays.

With the 49ers currently favored by 3.5 points, Saleh’s team looks to maintain its perfect record amidst the growing challenge presented by Coen’s Jaguars as they face off on Sunday.