49ers Offer Robert Saleh NFL's Highest-Paid Defensive Coordinator Position

The San Francisco 49ers are actively pursuing a reunion with former defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, offering him the highest-paid defensive coordinator position in the NFL. Insider Matt Barrows noted on the '49ers +/-' podcast that the franchise has largely focused on Saleh, having conducted minimal interviews with other candidates. Saleh, who previously led the 49ers' defense from 2017 to 2020, is also in contention for head coaching roles with the Jaguars, Raiders, and Cowboys. The 49ers are waiting to see if Saleh accepts a head coaching position elsewhere before finalizing their decision. While they have interviewed one other candidate, Deshea Townsend, the team's commitment to Saleh underscores their desire for a quick resolution to their coaching vacancy. The 49ers struggled in the 2024 season, finishing 6-11 and missing the playoffs, prompting the urgent need for a strong defensive leader.