Robert Saleh Set to Become Titans Head Coach, Per Adam Schefter
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Tennessee Titans are working to finalize a deal to hire San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh as their next head coach.
Saleh spent Monday in Tennessee meeting with Titans leadership, and sources indicate that both sides were impressed enough to move forward together, signaling that a deal could be imminent.
Saleh’s Second Head Coaching Opportunity
This move marks a significant moment in Saleh’s coaching journey. After previously serving as the New York Jets head coach, Saleh returned to San Francisco to rejoin Kyle Shanahan’s staff, quickly restoring stability and edge to the 49ers defense.
Under Saleh, the 49ers once again became one of the league’s most disciplined and aggressive units — strong against the run, assignment-sound in coverage, and relentless up front.
That resurgence did not go unnoticed.
Why the Titans Targeted Saleh
Tennessee has been searching for a leader who can:
- Rebuild a defensive identity
- Command locker room respect
- Develop young talent
- Establish a long-term culture
Saleh checks every box.
Known for his energy, accountability, and player-first approach, Saleh brings a clear vision — one rooted in physicality, discipline, and belief.
What This Means for the 49ers
If finalized, Saleh’s departure would represent another significant coaching loss for Kyle Shanahan’s staff — a familiar storyline in Santa Clara.
The 49ers will now need to:
- Identify a new defensive coordinator
- Maintain schematic continuity
- Preserve the culture Saleh helped reinforce
While the organization has proven capable of absorbing staff turnover, replacing Saleh’s presence — both on the sideline and in the locker room — will not be easy.
Saleh’s Lasting Impact in San Francisco
Robert Saleh’s return to the 49ers wasn’t just about scheme — it was about identity.
Intensity. Accountability. Brotherhood.
If this truly marks the end of his second stint in red and gold, Saleh leaves having once again elevated the standard.
And now, the Titans appear ready to hand him the keys to their franchise.
This story will be updated as the deal becomes official.
Per Adam Schefter tweet.
ESPN sources: Titans are working to finalize a deal to hire 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh as their head coach. Saleh spent Monday in Tennessee with the Titans, and the two sides impressed each other enough to move forward together. pic.twitter.com/rXC94my62B
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 20, 2026
🔴 Join the 49ers Faithful Community
49ers Faithful is a fan-powered San Francisco 49ers blog built by diehard supporters who live and breathe red & gold — not social media algorithms. Our mission is to create a permanent home for the Faithful outside of Facebook.
We’re actively looking for contributors who bring strong opinions, detailed game breakdowns, historical insight, or creative 49ers content that adds value for real fans.
Want to Write About the 49ers?
Comment below or contact us to become a 49ers Faithful contributorFollow 49ers Faithful on Facebook and Instagram.
Click to follow the 49ers Faithful Blog .
0 Comments