49ers Bring Back Robert Saleh as Defensive Coordinator

Robert Saleh is returning to the San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator after a three-year stint as head coach of the New York Jets.

Robert Saleh is set to make his return to the San Francisco 49ers, rejoining the team as defensive coordinator. This marks Saleh's second stint with the 49ers, having previously held the same role from 2017 to 2020. During his initial tenure, Saleh's defense achieved impressive rankings, including second in the NFL in 2019 and fifth in 2020.

Breaking: The San Francisco 49ers have named Robert Saleh their new defensive coordinator, sources tell ESPN.

Saleh now returns to the job he held before the Jets hired him as their head coach. pic.twitter.com/nmD9XrMHk1

— ESPN (@espn) January 25, 2025

Saleh's defensive expertise played a significant role in the 49ers' successful 2020 season, which culminated in a Super Bowl appearance against the Kansas City Chiefs. With over 18 years of NFL coaching experience, Saleh has developed a strong reputation as a defensive specialist. His coaching career began in 2005 with the Houston Texans, where he held various defensive roles.

Saleh's coaching journey has taken him to several teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, where he served as defensive quality control coach in 2011. He also worked as the linebackers coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2021, Saleh became the head coach of the New York Jets, a position he held for three full seasons before being fired in 2024.

49ers hire Robert Saleh as their Defensive Coordinator. (via @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/yify0SVoW4

— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2025

Despite his tenure with the Jets being marked by a 20-36 record and no postseason appearances, Saleh's coaching expertise was quickly sought after by another team. He joined the Green Bay Packers as an offensive consultant, helping the team reach the playoffs, although they ultimately lost in the wild card round to the Philadelphia Eagles.

MOOD‼️ pic.twitter.com/edCIkF9Rl4

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) January 25, 2025

The 49ers, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 6-11 season, will be hoping Saleh's return can bring a renewed sense of success to the team. Having made the Super Bowl in the previous season, the 49ers will be eager to recapture that form with Saleh at the helm of their defense.