Robert Saleh is back in the big chair, and this time he’s taking the reins in Nashville. After helping steer the San Francisco 49ers’ defense to another strong campaign, Saleh has been named the new head coach of the Tennessee Titans. Now, the former Jets head coach is assembling a staff he hopes can shape a young, talented roster into a legitimate contender in what’s become a surprisingly competitive AFC South.
One of his first moves? Reuniting with a familiar face.
According to reports, Cowboys defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton is joining Saleh’s staff in Tennessee. Whitecotton previously worked under Saleh during their time together with the New York Jets, and now he’ll be tasked with molding a Titans defensive front that features rising stars like Jeffery Simmons and T’Vondre Sweat.
Whitecotton’s name had been in the mix for the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator job earlier this season after Dallas moved on from Matt Eberflus. But with the Cowboys opting instead for Christian Parker-who spent the past two seasons as an assistant in Philadelphia-Whitecotton is heading to Tennessee, where he’ll have a chance to help shape a physical, aggressive front four under a coach who built his name on defense.
This is a critical moment for the Titans. After parting ways with Brian Callahan midseason-following a rough 4-19 stretch-the franchise hit reset. Now, with the No. 1 overall pick in 2025 Cam Ward under center and a new coaching regime in place, Tennessee is banking on Saleh’s experience and defensive pedigree to bring some much-needed stability and direction.
Saleh’s first head coaching stop didn’t go as planned. Hired by the Jets in 2021, he posted a 20-36 record over three seasons.
While the defense in New York often played at a high level, the situation was complicated by quarterback injuries and a highly publicized clash with Aaron Rodgers. The end result: Saleh was let go in 2024.
But he didn’t stay unemployed for long. The 49ers brought him back as their defensive coordinator, and despite a rash of injuries that left the unit shorthanded, Saleh helped guide San Francisco back to the Divisional Round. That kind of resilience-and his ability to maximize defensive talent-likely played a big role in Tennessee’s decision to hand him the keys to the franchise.
Saleh bringing some of his old Jets coaches to Tennessee. https://t.co/sV8U1mN30h
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) January 27, 2026
Now, the challenge is clear. Build a staff, develop a young quarterback, and bring a tough, defensive-minded identity to a Titans team looking to climb out of the AFC South basement. With Whitecotton on board and more hires likely on the way, Saleh’s second act as a head coach is officially underway.