The San Francisco 49ers have a clear target in mind as they search for their next defensive coordinator: Robert Saleh.
The former New York Jets head coach is drawing attention across the league, having already met with the Jacksonville Jaguars and scheduled to talk with the Las Vegas Raiders about their head coaching positions.
In an intriguing development, Saleh also connected with the 49ers to discuss their defensive coordinator opening, suggesting San Francisco is willing to bring back their former assistant.
Saleh’s history with the 49ers runs deep, having served as their defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020.
San Francisco isn’t just interested, it is prepared to make a significant offer.
“The 49ers are reportedly are willing to make Robert Saleh the ‘highest paid defensive coordinator in all the land,’ per Matt Barrows (of The Athletic),” TheSFNiners wrote on X.
The #49ers are reportedly are willing to make Robert Saleh the “highest paid defensive coordinator in all the land”, per @mattbarrows
via @timkawakami pod | h/t @Coach_Yac pic.twitter.com/HqnZddduUi
— ??????????? (@TheSFNiners) January 17, 2025
This bold approach by the 49ers comes with a catch. Their entire strategy depends on Saleh not landing a head coaching position elsewhere.
It’s a calculated risk, but one the team appears willing to take.
The connection between Saleh and the 49ers proved powerful during his previous stint.
His defensive unit peaked in 2019, ranking among the NFL’s best, and he maintained that excellence in his final two seasons.
Given his proven success and strong relationships with general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan, a reunion with Saleh seems like an obvious move.
The question now isn’t about fit, it’s about timing.
Can the 49ers afford to wait while Saleh explores head coaching opportunities?
NEXT: John Lynch Makes His Thoughts Clear About Deebo Samuel's Future
