The Tennessee Titans are reportedly bringing in Robert Saleh as their new head coach, according to a source from The Athletic. At 46, Saleh has a mix of experience, having led the New York Jets with a record of 20-36 from 2021 until he was let go in 2024. He previously worked as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, a role he just returned to after serving as an offensive consultant for the Green Bay Packers.
The Titans initially planned a virtual interview with Saleh but quickly switched to an in-person meeting, signaling their strong interest. They also spoke to other candidates, including Jeff Hafley, who has since been hired by the Miami Dolphins, and Matt Nagy from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Saleh’s hiring comes after a whirlwind search led by Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi and president Chad Brinker. The Titans reached out to more candidates than any other team in the current hiring cycle, indicating their commitment to finding the right fit.
Despite the 49ers facing significant injuries this past season—losing key defensive players like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner—they still managed to rank 13th in the NFL for points allowed, averaging 21.8 per game. San Francisco’s head coach, Kyle Shanahan, acknowledged Saleh’s talent, noting that it was only a matter of time before he got another head coaching opportunity.
Now, Saleh takes over a Titans team that has struggled defensively, ranking fifth-worst in the NFL last season. The Titans are looking to bounce back after parting ways with former coach Mike Vrabel, who led the team to three playoff appearances in six years.
One bright spot for the Titans is rookie quarterback Cam Ward, who showed promise at the end of the season, throwing for two touchdowns in each of his last four games. With over $100 million in salary cap space—more than any other team—and the fourth overall pick in the upcoming draft, the Titans have a solid chance to improve.
As Saleh steps into this role, he becomes the 20th head coach in Titans history, and the sixth since the franchise moved from Houston. The team hasn’t made the playoffs since 2021 and last appeared in the Super Bowl during the 1999 season, when they lost to the St. Louis Rams.
Saleh’s experience will undoubtedly be crucial as he tries to rebuild a team in need of a fresh start. In a time when roster changes and strategic shifts are essential, the decision to hire him could be a game changer for the Titans.
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San Francisco 49ers, Tennessee Titans, NFL
