Reuniting with Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator presents numerous advantages for the San Francisco 49ers. However, there are also some drawbacks, with one standing out the most—the possibility of his departure after the 2025 season.
Saleh pursued multiple head coaching opportunities this offseason before returning to the 49ers, and that ambition isn’t likely to fade after just one year. At the NFL owners’ meetings on Tuesday, Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the likelihood that Saleh could leave for a head coaching role in 2026.
“You understand that’s his ultimate goal, and that is for almost every coach,” Shanahan said. “If we had a great season and Saleh moved on, I’d be happy for him but disappointed for us. That would mean we were doing something right. You have to be prepared for that in this league—on offense, defense, and special teams. It’s something every team deals with.”
The 49ers are well aware of Saleh’s aspirations and have likely factored that into their plans. Losing him after just one season would be unfortunate, but as Shanahan pointed out, it would also indicate that the defense performed exceptionally well, increasing Saleh’s appeal as a head coach candidate.
With key defensive departures like Dre Greenlaw, the odds may favor Saleh staying beyond 2025, as filling gaps through the draft could pose challenges. However, surprises can emerge, as seen with last year’s rookie class. If unexpected contributors step up, Saleh could effectively implement his defensive scheme.
While it remains uncertain, if he leads a significant defensive turnaround, he may receive head coaching offers. For now, the 49ers are thrilled to have him back, eager to rebuild the unit alongside him—just as they did in 2017.
“It feels like he never left,” Shanahan said. “So many people in our building were here when Saleh was last with us… I feel lucky to have him back.”
