The San Francisco 49ers’ defense is set to regain its energy and identity as Robert Saleh returns as defensive coordinator. Star linebacker Fred Warner and defensive end Nick Bosa, both in Orlando for the Pro Bowl, couldn’t hide their excitement when asked about their former coach’s comeback.
A Familiar Face Returns
Saleh, who initially built his reputation as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, played a crucial role in shaping the unit into one of the league’s best. His departure to become head coach of the New York Jets left big shoes to fill, and Warner acknowledges just how impactful Saleh was.
“It means a lot,” Warner said. “Coach Saleh has been amazing for us, especially for me as a young player. Now, I’m the old guy in the room, but it’s going to be fun working with him again.”
Bosa echoed Warner’s sentiments, recalling the impact Saleh had when he first entered the league.
“It’s huge,” Bosa said. “A familiar face, a guy that I’ve missed. I don’t think we realized how good we had it when he was here.”
Restoring the 49ers’ Defensive Identity
The 49ers’ defensive energy saw a noticeable dip after Saleh’s departure. While DeMeco Ryans managed to maintain a high level of intensity, his successors struggled to replicate that fire. Warner believes Saleh’s leadership will bring back the defensive spark that was missing.
“It’s contagious,” Warner explained. “You see it—him, DeMeco—having that energy was a big part of our success.”
With Saleh back in the fold, San Francisco hopes to reestablish its defense as one of the most feared units in the NFL. If history is any indicator, the 49ers’ Super Bowl aspirations just got a major boost.
