Robert Saleh Returns to San Francisco 49ers as Defensive Coordinator
Robert Saleh is returning to the San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator, TheAthletic.com reported Thursday night. This comes after Saleh interviewed for head coaching positions with the Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders. He was considered a frontrunner for the Jaguars’ job, but negotiations began with Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen after the Jaguars fired General Manager Trent Baalke. Coen is now expected to be named the Jaguars’ head coach.
Saleh had canceled his flight to Jacksonville for a scheduled second interview on Friday. The New York Jets fired Saleh five games into his fourth season in October. His record in New York was 20-36.
Saleh initially joined the 49ers in 2017. His “all gas, no brake” defense quickly became one of the NFL’s top units. His success in San Francisco earned him the Jets’ head coaching job. This return to the 49ers could position him for another head coaching opportunity after the 2025 season, depending on his performance. Reports indicate the 49ers offered saleh the position of highest-paid defensive coordinator in the league.
What led to Robert Saleh’s decision to return to the San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator?
Robert Saleh Returns to San Francisco 49ers as Defensive Coordinator
Robert Saleh is returning to the San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator, theathletic.com reported Thursday night.This comes after Saleh interviewed for head coaching positions with the Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville jaguars, and Las vegas Raiders. He was considered a frontrunner for the Jaguars’ job, but negotiations began with Buccaneers offensive coordinator liam Coen after the Jaguars fired General Manager Trent Baalke. Coen is now expected to be named the Jaguars’ head coach.
Saleh had canceled his flight to Jacksonville for a scheduled second interview on Friday. The New York Jets fired Saleh five games into his fourth season in October. His record in New York was 20-36.
Saleh initially joined the 49ers in 2017. His “all gas, no brake” defense quickly became one of the NFL’s top units. His success in San Francisco earned him the Jets’ head coaching job. This return to the 49ers could position him for another head coaching opportunity after the 2025 season, depending on his performance. Reports indicate the 49ers offered saleh the position of highest-paid defensive coordinator in the league.
Q&A
Q: Why is Robert Saleh returning to the 49ers?
A: After interviewing for head coaching positions with several teams, Saleh is returning to the 49ers as their defensive coordinator. The Jaguars, considered a frontrunner for Saleh, opted to negotiate with Liam Coen rather.
Q: What is Saleh’s track record as a coach?
A: Saleh gained recognition for his prosperous “all gas, no brake” defense during his time with the 49ers. He then took on the head coaching role with the Jets, but was fired after a 20-36 record over four seasons.
Q: Could this move pave the way for Saleh to become a head coach again?
A: Absolutely. This return to the 49ers, where he previously thrived, could be a stepping stone for Saleh to regain the attention of NFL teams seeking a head coach.His performance over the next few years will be crucial.
Q: Is Saleh being well-compensated for this return?
A: Reports suggest the 49ers are offering Saleh the highest-paying defensive coordinator position in the league,indicating their commitment to having him back.
Saleh’s return to the 49ers is a important development in the NFL coaching landscape. Will he recapture the magic of his previous stint and lead one of the league’s top defenses onc again? Only time will tell.
