Robert Saleh Returns to Revive 49ers’ Defensive Dominance in 2025

The San Francisco 49ers are set to reunite with a familiar face as Robert Saleh returns to lead their defense in 2025. Saleh, who served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, has been brought back by head coach Kyle Shanahan in hopes of revitalizing the team’s defensive dominance. According to The Athletic, Saleh’s return aims to steer the 49ers back on track after a challenging season.

Saleh’s tenure as the New York Jets head coach ended abruptly in 2024 following a 2–3 start and a disappointing overall record of 20–36. His time in New York was marked by instability at the quarterback position. Former No. 2 pick Zach Wilson struggled to perform as a starter, and veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers tore his Achilles on the first drive of the 2023 season. While Rodgers returned to play in 2024, he was far from the MVP-level player he once was in Green Bay. These challenges ultimately led to Saleh’s dismissal.

Despite his struggles in New York, Saleh remained a sought-after coaching candidate. He reportedly held discussions with the Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Las Vegas Raiders about their head coaching vacancies. However, Saleh ultimately chose to reunite with Shanahan in San Francisco, where he previously orchestrated a top-five defense in both 2019 and 2020.

The 49ers’ defense showed potential in 2024, ranking eighth in total yards allowed (317.4 per game) but struggled in scoring defense, tying for 27th by conceding 25.6 points per game. Saleh’s return is expected to restore the defensive prowess that once made the 49ers a force to be reckoned with.