NY Jets to interview 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh

The NY Jets plan to interview San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.

The NY Jets promised to “cast a wide net” in their search for a new head coach this offseason and they’ve delivered thus far with two more candidates being added to the growing list on Thursday.

Just an hour after it was reported that the Jets requested an interview with New Orleans Saints defensive backs coach Aaron Glenn, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that they planned to do the same for San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.

Saleh has been a hot name in the coaching carousel for the last two years now with five of the six teams searching for a head coach this offseason having already interviewed or planned to interview him.

Saleh joined the 49ers in 2017 as the team’s defensive coordinator and he’s overseen one of the NFL’s best defenses over the past two years. His defense finished first in passing yards allowed in 2019 leading the organization to a Super Bowl berth.

And in 2020, despite the unit decimated by injuries to the likes of Nick Bosa, Richard Sherman, Dee Ford, and others, Saleh still managed one of the league’s best defenses. Even with a defense full of backups, Saleh’s unit ranked still ranked top-five in yards allowed per game.

As such, it’s hardly a surprise to see him receiving offers again this offseason coaching cycle.

The NY Jets are far from the only team interested in Robert Saleh

Saleh has become a fan favorite in San Francisco for his bombastic, boisterous attitude. His high-energy approach clearly resonates with players and he’s one of the biggest reasons behind the 49ers’ defensive success over the last two years.

Prior to joining the 49ers, Saleh served as a linebackers coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars and spent time with both the Houston Texans and Seattle Seahawks organizations.

At 41-years-old, it seems like a matter of time before Saleh is finally given his first head coaching opportunity. And with five teams knocking at his door, that might come as soon as this offseason.

Saleh joins the likes of Eric Bieniemy, Arthur Smith, Brian Daboll, Matt Eberflus, Brandon Staley, and Aaron Glenn as coaches the Jets plan to or already have interviewed.

And of those names, Saleh likely has a pretty good shot at securing the position.