Even without their two defensive cornerstones-Nick Bosa and Fred Warner-the San Francisco 49ers have kept their defensive identity intact in 2025. That’s no small feat, and a lot of the credit goes to defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who’s orchestrated one of the league’s most resilient units this season.
Let’s be clear: losing a premier edge rusher like Bosa and a field-general linebacker like Warner would derail most defenses. But under Saleh’s leadership, the 49ers haven’t just stayed afloat-they’ve thrived.
San Francisco currently ranks among the top ten in scoring defense, holding opponents to just 20.8 points per game. That’s not just respectable-it’s impressive, especially considering the personnel challenges.
Saleh has leaned into his high-energy coaching style, and it’s paying dividends. He’s gotten the most out of a defense that’s had to rely on depth, development, and discipline. Whether it’s been dialing up pressure at the right moments, disguising coverages, or simply keeping the group motivated and cohesive, Saleh has reminded the league why his name once sat near the top of head coaching candidate lists.
And now, that buzz is building again. According to league sources, Saleh is expected to be a strong contender for multiple head coaching jobs in 2026.
One source put it plainly: “He has credentials and done a good job with an injured defense.” In a hiring cycle that’s not exactly overflowing with elite candidates, Saleh’s track record-and what he’s done this year-stands out.
Of course, his first go-round as a head coach didn’t go as planned. His tenure with the New York Jets from 2021 to 2023 ended with three consecutive losing seasons, and he was let go midway through the 2024 campaign.
But context matters. Saleh inherited a tough situation in New York-one riddled with instability and roster turnover.
Around the league, there’s a sense that his time with the Jets didn’t define him, but rather highlighted what he was up against.
As one coach put it, “It showed what Robert had to overcome and that it wasn’t easy.” That perspective could be pivotal as teams weigh their options in the coming hiring cycle.
Right now, only two head coaching jobs are officially open-the New York Giants and the Tennessee Titans-but more vacancies are expected as the regular season winds down. If Saleh chooses to pursue another head coaching opportunity, he’ll likely have suitors. And if this season has shown us anything, it’s that Saleh still knows how to lead a defense-and maybe, just maybe, he’s ready for another shot at leading a team.