Robert Saleh, the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, has returned to the organization with a renewed focus and determination. As he settles back into his role, Saleh is eager to help his players grow while keeping an eye on future head coaching opportunities. His time with the New York Jets is often considered a failure given the 20-36 record on the surface. Many people think this tenure will look better after a few years.
After inheriting a Jets franchise that had won only two games and was in disarray, Saleh turned around the once-struggling franchise. He guided them to seven-win seasons in each the 2022 and 2023 campaigns. That impressive reclamation project on his resume has now piqued the curiosity of several teams looking to hire a new head coach. Saleh has already interviewed for these with the Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders, and Jacksonville Jaguars. This is a clear statement by the league that it appreciates and acknowledges his talent at coaching.
Back with the 49ers starting on January 24, Saleh is again in a comfortable spot, but this time it’s from a traveled perspective. He has every intention of returning to the defensive side of the ball to coach. Simultaneously, he highlights the need to serve as a resource to all users of the facility. His commitment to player development shines through in several ways. For instance, you can probably find him in his office. There, he treats viewers to an unusual, inside look at game tape alongside rookie safety Ji’Ayir Brown.
Saleh’s approach goes beyond mere film study. He talks to players, like backup cornerback Chase Lucas and keeps them encouraged, building their confidence. He works as an architect in scheme conversations next to safety Jason Pinnock. His engagements exemplify his commitment to building a cohesive team. Despite featuring a largely untested corps of up and comers and retread veterans, they’ve played their way to 11th right now in the league—allowing only 20.9 points per game.
Saleh’s relationship with head coach Kyle Shanahan remains strong, having evolved through their shared experiences in head coaching roles. While this level of mutual understanding might sound boring, it has been an astounding boon to the team’s collaborative spirit. Shanahan has expressed admiration for Saleh’s contributions, stating, “I hope for us he’s not a head coach next year,” highlighting the value Saleh brings to the 49ers.
And as much as he would love to become a head coach one day, Saleh is able to keep everything in perspective. He admits to his ambition to one day reach the top of coaching’s pyramid but maintains that he’s in no hurry. Is that ambition to become the best of the profession and hoist the Lombardi one day? Am I in a rush? No, I really enjoy living in this place,” he said.
Saleh’s time with the Jets educated him on leadership and the inner workings of an organization. Looking back on his tenure in New York, he admitted, “We failed, quite frankly. The owner felt it was time to move on.” Since leaving Congress, he’s been processing those experiences, looking for ways to do better if a new opportunity presents itself. “That’s where I’ve got to look inward and see what we could have done better,” Saleh further told on the matter.
As happy as Saleh is about his current position with the 49ers, he’s still keeping one eye peeled for future openings. His work this season may position him favorably for another shot at a head coaching role as early as the offseason. His defensive purity is evident, and he has an engaging way of breaking through to players. This makes him an attractive candidate for teams looking to go through a major overhaul.
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