San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner stepped up to the podium after Saturday's victory over the Arizona Cardinals. He praised defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, calling him the "best DC in the league."
"I've got so much respect for that guy," Warner continued. "He's just such a smart mind and on top of that, knowing exactly what he wants, exactly what he wants out of us. He makes it crystal clear for everyone."
Saleh's defense held Kyler Murray and the Cardinals' potent offense to just 12 points. It was yet another impressive performance on his coaching resume.
Saleh may be closing in on the end of his tenure with the 49ers. Many expect him to land a head coaching job this offseason. While excited for Saleh, head coach Kyle Shanahan doesn't like the idea of trying to replace his talented coordinator.
"The injuries we've had throughout the year, being able to adjust, just where we've come here in these three years, Saleh was ready for this year, big time," Shanahan said after the game. "He's been through almost every situation in our four years, and for our defense to play at the level that they have throughout this all says a lot about him, a ton about his staff, and a ton about all those players."
Shanahan feels the 49ers have several good coaches, maybe even one who can step into Saleh's role should the coordinator depart for another organization.
"As I keep saying, I hope I don't lose Saleh, but we've got a bunch of good coaches on this staff, and we'll decide that here," Shanahan added. "I guess we've got about eight days left, so we'll see how it ends up."
Warner believes Saleh will thrive as an NFL head coach and intends to help his coach build upon his impressive resume.
"Love that guy," the linebacker said. "I know he's going to be a great head coach one day soon. We've got one more game to put some good stuff on tape."
