The San Francisco 49ers are once again facing a familiar challenge: replacing Robert Saleh. The defensive coordinator is heading out of the Bay Area, this time to take over as the head coach of the Tennessee Titans. It's a major move that leaves a key vacancy on one of the NFL's most talented coaching staffs.
If this feels like déjà vu, that's because it is. Saleh originally left San Francisco in 2021 to become the head coach of the New York Jets. Now, after returning to the 49ers and helping guide their defense once again, he's off to lead another franchise-this time in the AFC South.
So, what’s next for the Niners’ defense?
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, head coach Kyle Shanahan already has a clear frontrunner in mind for the job: Gus Bradley. The veteran coach is currently a senior defensive assistant with the team and brings a wealth of experience to the table. Shanahan reportedly called him the “obvious” choice to take over the defensive coordinator role.
That’s no small endorsement.
Bradley, 59, has been around the NFL block more than a few times. He’s best known for his stint as head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, but his real bread and butter has been as a defensive coordinator.
He’s led defenses for the Chargers and Colts, and while not every year has been perfect, he’s had multiple units rank near the top of the league in key categories. His system is rooted in discipline, communication, and a bend-don’t-break philosophy that can thrive with the right personnel.
And let’s be honest-the 49ers have the personnel.
After a rocky 2025 season where the defense took a noticeable step back, the need for stability and experience at the coordinator spot is more important than ever. The Niners are still built to contend, but they need someone who can recalibrate the defensive identity and bring back the edge that made them one of the most feared units in football just a few seasons ago.
Bradley might just be that guy.
Of course, there’s a wrinkle. With Saleh now in Tennessee, there’s always the possibility he tries to bring Bradley along with him to the Titans.
That would make sense-familiarity, trust, and a shared defensive vision. But as of now, all signs point to Bradley staying put and stepping into the DC role in San Francisco.
Shanahan’s vote of confidence speaks volumes. In a league where continuity and chemistry matter just as much as scheme, promoting from within could provide the 49ers the stability they need heading into 2026. Bradley knows the locker room, understands the culture, and has the kind of résumé that commands respect.
If the 49ers want to get back to playing elite-level defense, this hire could be step one.