The San Francisco 49ers struggled defensively in 2024, contributing to a disappointing 6-11 finish and last place in the NFC West. According to Pro Football Focus, the team earned a 68.4 defensive grade (15th in the NFL) and a troubling 54.6 run-defense grade (28th in the NFL).
In response, the 49ers made a significant change. They parted ways with defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen and brought back Robert Saleh to fill the role. Saleh previously served as the team's defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, during which he built one of the NFL's most physically dominant units.
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Now, the 49ers are hoping that Saleh can bring that same fire and intensity back in 2025.
George Kittle on Saleh's return: "Violence is coming"
No one seems more excited about Saleh's return than tight end George Kittle, who was around during the coach's first stint in San Francisco. Kittle recently joined The Rich Eisen Show, where he emphasized just how impactful Saleh's presence already feels within the building.
"That might be the underlying headline for the Niners, that Saleh's back in the building," Kittle recently said on The Rich Eisen Show. "He's really good at his job, and I'm really excited that we somehow convinced him to be our defensive coordinator again, because he knows what he's talking about, he's inspiring, he gets the boys fired up, and he just happens to also be really, really smart.
"So, I'm pumped to have him back in the building, just hanging out with him a little bit, talking about stuff. You can just tell he's ready to roll this year, and he's gonna get the boys fired up."
If that wasn't enough of a warning to the rest of the league, Kittle made his message unmistakably clear, adding, "Violence is coming, is what I would say."
Saleh's second act in San Francisco
Saleh left the 49ers in 2021 to become the head coach of the New York Jets, but his tenure ended early last season after a 2-3 start. As he awaits his next head coaching opportunity, Saleh is focused on rebuilding a 49ers defense that underperformed in 2024.
While the defense lost several key contributors in March, San Francisco's front office has provided Saleh with reinforcements. The team used six of its 11 draft picks this year on defensive players, including its first five selections.
With new talent, an aggressive mindset, and a proven leader at the helm of the new-look defense, the 49ers are hoping to return to their trademark identity of physical and violent play.