Anticipated Reunion of Robert Saleh with San Francisco 49ers: Shared Objective
It seems like Robert Saleh is all set to return to the San Francisco 49ers' sideline, dashing hopes of him leading the Jaguars or any other team as a head coach. Mike Silver of The Athletic broke the news early Thursday, with other reports corroborating the news later on. Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reported that Saleh has informed the 49ers he'll be their defensive coordinator if he doesn't land a head coaching gig elsewhere.
Jacksonville was initially seen as Saleh's next destination as their head coach, but owner Shahid Khan surprisingly fired general manager Trent Baalke, opening up a new opportunity for Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen. Coen has reportedly agreed to return to Tampa Bay, but the deal hasn't been finalized yet.
Saleh was also a top candidate for the vacant positions with the Las Vegas Raiders and Dallas Cowboys, but those jobs remain open, leaving the door open for Saleh to return to the 49ers.
Bringing back Saleh makes sense for the 49ers, who were facing their fourth different defensive coordinator in as many seasons. The team struggled defensively in 2024, ranking eighth in yards allowed per game but tying for 27th in points allowed per game. With Saleh's reputation as a top defensive mind in football, his return is expected to bring stability and potentially improve the team's defensive performance.
The 49ers were reportedly willing to offer Saleh the highest-paid coordinator contract in NFL history. However, the question remains whether this deal will be enough to keep him with the team for more than one season. With his coaching abilities and potential as a head coach, Saleh is expected to be a top candidate for head coaching positions during the 2025 cycle.
As of Friday, Saleh was expected to fly to Jacksonville for a second interview, but he never made the trip. Instead, it appears the 49ers job is more appealing to him than leading a struggling Jaguars organization. The opportunity to return as the defensive coordinator of a team he knows well and has had success with is a tempting offer to resist.
In conclusion, Robert Saleh's return to the 49ers as their defensive coordinator is a smart move for both parties. The team gets stability and a defensive mastermind, while Saleh gets the chance to prove himself once again with a team he knows well.
Kyle Shanahan expressed his excitement about having Robert Saleh back as the 49ers defensive coordinator, as it will provide continuity and strengthen the team's defensive unit. Liam Coen, who was a contender for the Jacksonville Jaguars' head coaching position, turned down the offer and is expected to remain with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leaving the Jaguars in search of a new coach. The New York Jets are reportedly interested in hiring Liam Coen as their offensive coordinator if he becomes available.
