Robert Saleh returns to San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator

The San Francisco 49ers are welcoming back Robert Saleh as their defensive coordinator, the team announced Friday, following a report from The Athletic about his return.

The 49ers confirmed the news on Twitter with the message: "ALL GAS, NO BRAKE. WELCOME HOME, ROBERT SALEH."

Saleh, 45, rejoins the 49ers after serving as their defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, during the early years of head coach Kyle Shanahan's tenure. He was instrumental in leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance after the 2019 season, though they fell short against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Saleh’s recent stint as head coach of the New York Jets lasted just over three seasons, where he posted a 20-36 record without reaching the playoffs. A 2-3 start to the 2024 campaign led to his dismissal in October. Following his exit, Saleh worked as a consultant for the Green Bay Packers during the latter part of the 2024 season.

His return to San Francisco follows the firing of Nick Sorensen, who held the defensive coordinator role for just one season. Despite allowing the eighth-fewest yards per game (317.4), the 49ers’ defense struggled, giving up the fourth-most points in the NFL (25.6 points per game) during the 2024 season.

Saleh’s coaching journey began in college football, with stints at Michigan State, Central Michigan, and Georgia. He entered the NFL in 2005 as a defensive intern for the Houston Texans, where he remained through 2010. He later joined the Seattle Seahawks (2011–13) and Jacksonville Jaguars (2014–16) before his initial tenure with the 49ers.

The 49ers are hoping Saleh’s return will rejuvenate their defense after a disappointing 6-11 season in 2024, which saw them finish last in the NFC West. The team has been in rebuilding mode since their Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs following the 2023 season.

SportsLigue