Maybe Robert Saleh needed a break from his time off. The former New York Jets head coach, fired on October 8, has decided to lend his expertise to an NFC team while he awaits his next opportunity.
San Francisco 49ers fans had hoped Saleh might join head coach Kyle Shanahan's staff in some capacity, given his history with the team. However, it seems the 49ers' former defensive coordinator will instead assist a conference rival—the Green Bay Packers.
ESPN's Rob Demovsky spotted Saleh on the Packers' practice field on Wednesday, where he was instructing players.
Recently fired Jets coach Robert Saleh is at Packers practice. Long history between him and Matt LaFleur. Also has worked with Jeff Hafley.
We'll hear from LaFleur after practice if he's hired Saleh in some capacity.
That's him on the far sideline watching the offense. pic.twitter.com/JjOFAv1iLa
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) October 23, 2024
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that Saleh is serving as a consultant, helping the offense prepare for its upcoming game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
"I think that's always a good deal to have the perspective, that defensive perspective on that side of the ball," LaFleur said via the Packers' official website. "So, (he's) just taking a look at some of the things we're doing. It's a good opportunity for him to learn and also for him to help us and give us perspective on how teams might see us, how they might defend us."
Saleh's position with the team is described as "fluid." He plans to return home on Friday. He is staying at LaFleur's house for now, as the two were college roommates. LaFleur reached out to Saleh after his dismissal from the Jets.
Despite Saleh's defensive background, LaFleur emphasized that the former Jets coach will not be assisting Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.
"I don't want to do that," LaFleur said. "I think Haf and our defensive staff have a great thing going right now. And I totally trust them. It's Year 1, he's kind of got to go through it himself."
Regarding Saleh, LaFleur added, "He's got an elite defensive mind. But that's why I want him on the offensive side, so he can help us attack the defenses."
Saleh spent four seasons with the 49ers before being named the Jets' head coach in 2021. This season, San Francisco's defense ranks 18th in total yards allowed and points allowed, 19th in passing yards allowed, and 14th in rushing yards allowed.
