According to multiple reports, the San Francisco 49ers have officially hired former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh as their new defensive coordinator.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers confirmed the move via a press release.
Reunion: After interviewing for three head coaching jobs, Robert Saleh is now officially returning to the #49ers as defensive coordinator, per sources.
Saleh impressed in interviews and now is back in a familiar place, with a chance to become a hot HC candidate again in 2026. pic.twitter.com/Jju2cu1qjj
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 25, 2025
Saleh, 45, interviewed for head coaching positions with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, and Dallas Cowboys. Along with considering Saleh, the 49ers also interviewed Detroit Lions defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach Deshea Townsend for their defensive coordinator position. Additionally, they considered 49ers assistant head coach Brandon Staley.
Saleh began his NFL coaching career in 2005 with the Houston Texans. Initially serving as a defensive intern, he later advanced to roles as the defensive quality control coach and assistant linebackers coach. Saleh joined the Seattle Seahawks as a defensive quality control coach from 2011 to 2013, contributing to their dominant defense.
From 2014 to 2016, Saleh served as the linebackers coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2017, he joined Shanahan's 49ers staff, serving as the team's defensive coordinator. Over four seasons with the 49ers, Saleh played a pivotal role in building one of the NFL's top defenses. His efforts were instrumental in the 49ers' journey to Super Bowl LIV during the 2019 season.
The Jets hired Saleh as their head coach in 2021, but after a disappointing 2-3 start to the 2024 season, the team fired him on October 8. Saleh joined the Green Bay Packers as an offensive consultant for the remainder of the season.
Shanahan hopes to reignite past success by reuniting with Saleh, bringing his leadership and defensive expertise back to the 49ers.