Title: Saleh Set to Ink History-Making Deal with the San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers' Hunt for a New Defensive Coordinator has yet to gain traction.
Following a single season with Nick Sorensen, the 49ers find themselves on the hunt for their fourth defensive coordinator in as many years. The perpetual turnover in this position has significantly impacted the team's defensive performance, failing to deliver any significant improvements.
As the team gears up for a fresh start following a dismal 7-10 season under head coach Kyle Shanahan, one name persists at the forefront of speculation.
Former 49ers defensive coordinator and New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh has emerged as the odds-on favorite for the position. It seems as if the 49ers' front office is fixated on the idea of bringing Saleh back, labeling him as their top choice.
According to Matt Barrows of The Athletic, the 49ers are prepared to make Saleh an offer that would make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in NFL history.
"We'll make you the highest paid defensive coordinator in all the land if you sign with us," Barrows stated during a recent podcast.
Saleh, now 45, served as the 49ers' defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020 before departing to assume the head coaching role with the Jets. During his time in Santa Clara, he orchestrated two top-five defenses.
Saleh was ousted from his position with the Jets five games into the 2024 season, after compiling a dismal 20-36 record. However, he boasts an impressive resume, having led defenses that finished in the top five on three separate occasions.
The 49ers' offer to elevate Saleh to the status of the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the NFL will not come without a fight. Despite garnering head coach interest from the Las Vegas Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Dallas Cowboys, any of these teams offering him a head coaching position would be more enticing than a return to the 49ers in a less prominent role.
Evaluating Other Defensive Coordinator Candidates in San Francisco
Deshea Townsend
Townsend, a keen eye for defense as the Detroit Lions' defensive passing game coordinator, has already interviewed for the position. With 13 years of experience as an NFL defensive back, Townsend is regarded as an up-and-coming coaching talent. Under his leadership, the Lions surrendered just 18 touchdown passes compared to 16 interceptions during the regular season.
Jeff Ulbrich
Ulbrich, a former Jets defensive coordinator, is also in contention for the position he previously held before Saleh's departure. Now serving as the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, Ulbrich had previously coached the Jets' defense in 2021, and later with the Falcons in 2020.
Brandon Staley
Assistant coach Brandon Staley, who was recently let go by the Los Angeles Chargers, is also in the running for the opening. Shanahan has already voiced his intention to give Staley a chance during the interview process.
Dennis Allen
Former Raiders and Saints head coach Dennis Allen is another name that warrant discussion, given his background in leading top-tier defenses in the NFL. He served as the Saints' defensive coordinator from 2015 to 2021, under Sean Payton, and boasts a wealth of experience in the realm of defense.
As the 49ers continue to evaluate their defensive coordinator options, the return of Robert Saleh looms large. While other high-profile names are in contention, the 49ers' organization seems set on maneuvering to secure his services in an effort to stabilize their once-revolving defensive coordinator position.
After considered options such as Deshea Townsend, Jeff Ulbrich, Brandon Staley, and Dennis Allen, the 49ers' focus remains on Robert Saleh. Matt Barrows' assertion of an offer to make Saleh the highest-paid defensive coordinator in NFL history highlight their determination.
Deshea Townsend, as Detroit Lions' defensive passing game coordinator, showcased his defensive acumen and surpassed opponents by intercepting more passes than they scored touchdowns against.
Kyle Shanahan expressed interest in interviewing Brandon Staley, who recently parted ways with the Los Angeles Chargers, for the defensive coordinator position.
