Kyle Shanahan is soon to make the first big addition to his coaching staff since his introductory press conference last Thursday.
Ex-Jaguars LB coach Robert Saleh is expected to be announced as the 49ers’ new defensive coordinator, according to a report by Adam Caplan of ESPN.
Former #Jaguars LBs coach Robert Saleh is expected to join #49ers as defensive coordinator, source said.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) February 13, 2017
Saleh, 38, was the Jaguars LB coach from 2014-2016, and worked with Kyle Shanahan from 2006-2009 when Saleh was the defensive quality control coach and assistant LB coach with the Houston Texans. Saleh got his start a Michigan State and has been coaching at the NFL level since 2005 when he joined the Texans as a defensive intern.
Saleh attended Northen Michigan University and was a four-year starter and all-conference tight end during his time there. Saleh has never been a defensive coordinator at the college or pro level.
Saleh replaces Jim O’Neil who lasted just one season as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator. The 49ers defense ranked dead last in both yards and points allowed in 2016. San Francisco finished 29th in yards allowed in 2015.
With the hiring of six assistant coaches yesterday, Shanahan’s staff for 2017 is close to set. Shanahan announced he will be calling the plays on the offensive end during Thursday’s presser, and will not be hiring a formal offensive coordinator.
