The San Francisco 49ers are once again in search of a new defensive coordinator after parting ways with Nick Sorensen following a disappointing 7-10 season. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the team will be hiring a new coordinator, highlighting a concerning lack of stability on the defensive side of the ball. As head coach Kyle Shanahan and the front office navigate this crucial decision, one name stands out above the rest: Robert Saleh.
Robert Saleh: The Overwhelming Favorite
Saleh, 45, is widely regarded as the top candidate for the 49ers’ defensive coordinator position. Having previously served in the role from 2017 to 2020, he played a key role in developing San Francisco’s elite defense, which helped propel the team to a Super Bowl appearance during the 2019 season. After leaving to become the head coach of the New York Jets, Saleh struggled to find sustained success, finishing with a 20-36 record before being fired five games into the 2024 season. However, his defensive expertise remains unquestioned, as his units consistently ranked among the league’s best.
According to Matt Barrows of The Athletic, the 49ers are prepared to offer Saleh a contract that would make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in NFL history. The franchise is reportedly laser-focused on bringing him back, with a “Saleh or bust” mentality.
However, the competition for Saleh’s services extends beyond San Francisco. He is being considered for head coaching vacancies with the Las Vegas Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Dallas Cowboys. If any of these teams were to offer him a top job, Saleh would almost certainly prioritize a head coaching role over returning to San Francisco in a lesser capacity.
Backup Options for the 49ers
While Saleh remains the top choice, the 49ers must prepare for alternative scenarios if he accepts a head coaching job elsewhere. Several other candidates have already been linked to the position:
Deshea Townsend – The Detroit Lions’ defensive passing-game coordinator has already interviewed for the job. A former 13-year NFL veteran, Townsend is viewed as a rising star in the coaching world. Under his guidance, Detroit’s defense produced 16 interceptions and allowed just 18 passing touchdowns in 2024.
Jeff Ulbrich – Currently serving as the Jets’ defensive coordinator, Ulbrich took over play-calling duties when Saleh was fired earlier in the season. A former 49ers linebacker from 2000-2009, Ulbrich’s familiarity with the organization makes him a strong candidate.
Brandon Staley – The former Los Angeles Chargers head coach is already part of the 49ers’ staff and is expected to be interviewed for the role. Staley previously coordinated the league’s top-ranked defense with the Los Angeles Rams in 2020.
Dennis Allen – Recently fired by the New Orleans Saints, Allen has extensive experience as a defensive coordinator. Given his struggles as a head coach, he may be best suited for a return to a defensive leadership role.
The Challenge of Finding Stability
While hiring Saleh would undoubtedly be a home-run move, it comes with potential drawbacks. If he performs well, he could quickly become a top candidate for head coaching positions again next offseason, forcing the 49ers to restart their search. The franchise must weigh the importance of short-term defensive improvement against the long-term need for stability at the position.
Regardless of who ultimately gets the job, San Francisco must find a coordinator who can provide consistency and elevate a defense that has struggled with frequent leadership changes. Whether it’s Saleh or another candidate, the next hire will play a crucial role in shaping the 49ers’ defensive future.
