Imagine being handed a second chance at your dream job, but with the wisdom of hindsight—what would you change? For Robert Saleh, the former New York Jets head coach turned San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator, this isn’t just a hypothetical question. After a tumultuous tenure with the Jets, Saleh has returned to the 49ers, where he’s not only thrived but also reflected deeply on what he’d do differently if given another shot at leading a team.
But here’s where it gets intriguing: Saleh’s time with the Jets wasn’t just a learning curve—it was a revelation. During a candid conversation with Josina Anderson on The Exhibit, Saleh admitted, ‘There’s a lot of things I’d do differently. One of the biggest things I’m going to do is I’m going to call.’ This simple statement carries weight, especially when you consider his approach during his Jets tenure. In his first press conference, Saleh declared he wouldn’t handle play-calling, opting instead to collaborate with offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich. But now, he sees play-calling as a game-changer—a way to stay emotionally connected to the game and his players.
And this is the part most people miss: Saleh’s shift in perspective isn’t just about strategy; it’s about leadership. ‘When you’re immersed in the game as a play-caller, it brings out the emotion in me and gets me excited and connected to all the players,’ he explained. This insight hints at a deeper understanding of how hands-on involvement can transform a coach’s impact on their team. Is this the key to unlocking a more effective head coaching style? Or could it be a double-edged sword, risking overinvolvement?
Saleh’s return to the 49ers has been nothing short of remarkable, especially given the team’s recent setbacks. Losing star players like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner for the 2025 NFL season could have derailed the defense, but Saleh has navigated these challenges with resilience. Fans have taken notice, with many calling his return the highlight of the season. Even head coach Kyle Shanahan has acknowledged Saleh’s influence, crediting him for pivotal decisions in their Week 13 victory over the Cleveland Browns.
But here’s the controversial question: Could Saleh’s success with the 49ers be a double-edged sword for the team? With his name buzzing as a top candidate for head coaching vacancies, there’s a real possibility he could leave after just one season. For now, his focus remains on guiding Shanahan’s defense through the playoffs, but the future is far from certain. Would the 49ers be better off keeping him as a defensive mastermind, or should they encourage his growth as a head coach, even if it means losing him?
As the NFL world watches Saleh’s next moves, one thing is clear: his journey is far from over. Whether he stays with the 49ers or embarks on another head coaching adventure, his reflections on leadership and play-calling are sure to spark debate. What do you think—is Saleh’s new approach the key to his future success, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to stay updated on all things 49ers with NBC Sports Bay Area and California. For deeper insights, download and follow the 49ers Talk Podcast—you won’t want to miss it!
