When Saleh left the 49ers for the Jets after the 2020 season, the 49ers knew linebackers coach DeMeco Ryans was going to step into that role and he did so with rousing success. He wound up only working as the 49ers’ DC for two years before landing the head coaching job with the Houston Texans.

The San Francisco 49ers have long established their strong defensive identity, and with Robert Saleh back at the helm

Robert Saleh is set to take one of his former jobs, as he will become the San Francisco 49ers' defensive coordinator, The Athletic reported on Thursday. Saleh served as the New York Jets' head coach for three-plus seasons before he was fired in October after the team started 2-3.