The San Francisco 49ers’ search for a new defensive coordinator might end before it even gains full momentum—or at least, that’s the team’s hope. Just two weeks after their season-ending loss to the Cardinals, the 49ers have conducted only two interviews for the position.
Despite a league filled with elite defensive minds like Dennis Allen, Matt Eberflus, and Lou Anarumo, San Francisco has zeroed in on one target: Robert Saleh.
On a recent episode of 49ers Plus/Minus, The Athletic’s Matt Barrows revealed that the 49ers have made a compelling offer to Saleh in an effort to avoid a drawn-out search.
“It’s Robert Saleh or bust, really,” Barrows stated. “They haven’t done much groundwork with anyone else so far. I’ve heard they’ve already told Saleh, ‘We’ll make you the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the league if you sign with us.’ So now, it’s just a matter of waiting.”
For now, waiting is exactly what the 49ers must do as Saleh navigates opportunities in the head coaching market.
Reports indicate that Saleh has already interviewed with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders. He is also the first known candidate for the Dallas Cowboys’ vacant head coaching role, though the timing of that interview remains unclear.
Robert Saleh’s Fit With the 49ers
Saleh’s potential return to San Francisco seems like a perfect fit, given his history of leading the 49ers’ defense to elite performances during his tenure.
From 2017 to 2020, Saleh served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator, spearheading one of the league’s most dominant units in 2019. That season, his defense ranked sixth in forced turnovers (27), second in total defense (281.8 yards per game), first in passing defense (169.2 yards per game), and fourth in sacks (48).
In his final two seasons with the team, Saleh’s defense consistently ranked in the top five, making his return a logical choice.
However, some question the 49ers’ approach of putting all their eggs in one basket. The lack of official interviews with candidates like former Saints coach Dennis Allen or former Bears coach Matt Eberflus raises concerns about their preparedness if Saleh chooses a head coaching role elsewhere.
While Saleh’s familiarity with general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan offers comfort, the team risks missing out on other
