SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Robert Saleh is back in the saddle as the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator, a role he previously held from 2017 to 2020. His return comes after a challenging season for the Niners, who struggled defensively, finishing 29th in scoring defense and allowing 25.6 points per game. Saleh’s mission is clear: revive a defense that has the potential to be one of the league’s best.
During his first public comments since being hired in January 2025, Saleh expressed optimism about the talent he’s inheriting. "There’s a lot of really good talent on this defense," he said on May 8, 2025. The roster boasts standout players like edge rusher Nick Bosa, a former Defensive Player of the Year, four-time All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner, and versatile defensive back Deommodore Lenoir. This time around, Saleh is not starting from scratch; he has a solid foundation to build upon.
Saleh’s initial stint with the 49ers was marked by growing pains. In his first two seasons, the team struggled defensively, but everything changed in 2019 when the Niners drafted Bosa and implemented the innovative “wide nine” scheme. This strategy allowed edge rushers to line up wider, putting more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The result? A trip to the Super Bowl and a defense that ranked first in pass defense that season.
“It’s not nearly as what ’17 was,” Saleh said, reflecting on the differences between his previous and current situations. The 49ers’ defense was a force to be reckoned with in 2019, tallying 48 sacks, including 41 by defensive linemen, and allowing fewer than 20 points per game. However, the past season was a stark contrast, as injuries and inconsistent performances led to a disappointing finish.
Saleh’s successful tenure with the New York Jets also adds to his credibility. During his last two full seasons there, the Jets ranked first in passing yards allowed per game (178.9) and yards per play allowed (4.7), showcasing his ability to lead a formidable defense. Despite his firing midway through the 2024 season, Saleh’s defensive acumen remains highly regarded.
Returning to the 49ers, Saleh has made it clear that his defensive philosophy has evolved. "Some things are the same, some things are new," he explained. He aims to blend the successful elements from his previous tenure with fresh ideas developed during his time with the Jets. The goal is to stay ahead of the offensive trends in the league. Saleh emphasized the importance of collaboration between the coaching and scouting staffs, a hallmark of the 49ers’ organization. "This organization will spend three to four weeks just grinding on tape," he noted, highlighting the thorough preparation that contributes to the team's success.
In the recent draft, the 49ers made a bold move by selecting defensive players with their first five picks, marking the first time the franchise has done so since 1981. This strategy reflects a commitment to rebuilding a defense that can compete at the highest level. Among the new additions is linebacker Nick Martin, who reminds the coaching staff of Dre Greenlaw, a key player during the 2019 Super Bowl run. Additionally, they picked up Upton Stout, a nickel cornerback likened to former 49er K’Waun Williams, who had a standout season in 2019.
General manager John Lynch praised the new defensive tackle C.J. West, describing him as "extremely stout, sturdy, but also has the quickness and strength to play in the other team’s backfield." The team also added Alfred Collins, a second-round pick, who brings much-needed length to the middle of the defensive line, and Mykel Williams, a first-rounder who is expected to complement Bosa effectively.
Saleh’s return comes at a critical time for the 49ers, who have faced significant challenges in recent seasons. The previous season saw them tied for the seventh-fewest takeaways with just 17, and they struggled to create turnovers, managing only two over the final nine games. This inability to force turnovers and generate pressure led to a season-ending collapse, with the team allowing 40 points in back-to-back games for the first time since 2015.
“There was a lot of empathy for what happened to the group last year,” Saleh remarked, acknowledging the injuries that plagued the defense. He remains hopeful that with his leadership and the infusion of new talent, the 49ers can return to their defensive glory.
As the team prepares for minicamp and training camp, Saleh has made it clear that the incoming rookies have a steep learning curve ahead. He emphasized the importance of understanding his “all gas, no break” philosophy, which prioritizes aggressive play and relentless pursuit of the ball. “They’ve got OTAs, training camp — it’s gonna be a crash course,” he said, indicating that opportunities will be available for those who prove themselves worthy.
With the 49ers looking to bounce back from a disappointing season, Saleh’s return brings renewed hope and excitement. As he steps back into the role he once held, the organization is eager to see how his evolved defensive strategies will impact the upcoming season. The foundation is set, the talent is in place, and now it’s time for Saleh to lead the charge once again.
