Category - News
Robert Saleh Finds New Job With Old Team
Robert Saleh wasted little time after being fired from the New York Jets last fall amid a poor showing throughout the season. He quickly began working with the Green Bay Packers' defense following his dismissal, and now the Super Bowl-winning coach is back with his former employer.
On Jan. 28, the San Francisco 49ers announced the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator for the team. Saleh previously served as defensive coordinator for the team from 2017 through 2020, including the team's run all the way to the Super Bowl in the 2019–2020 season.
The 49ers pointed out Saleh's credentials and his performance with the 49ers years ago as the perfect qualifications for the job. During his first stint with the team, he led a defensive squad that ranked third overall in passing yards allowed per game, fourth in total defense and opponent yards per play, and sixth in opponent yards per rush, according to a statement from the team.
Related: High School Football Coach Fired After Post-Practice Baptism
After Saleh was fired from the Jets, rumors began swirling that controversial Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers had a hand in his removal, but the 41-year-old clarified that that wasn't the case.
"I love Coach Saleh. We have a very solid relationship. We have since I met him in 2021," he said on The Pat McAfee Show last fall. "He was a big reason why I came to the Jets. I felt like the team was a solid team."
"I'm thankful for Robert," he added. "I'm thankful for his leadership of our team, I'm thankful for the conversations that we were able to have, and him trusting me, and the way he cared about his players."
Related: WNBA Coach Says Championship Title Was 'Stolen' by Foul Call
Super Bowl LIX is set between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles on Feb. 9.