Saleh’s defenses have been disruptive and diverse.
In Saleh’s two stints as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator (2017-20, 2025-present), he has succeeded with different styles.
In 2019, the Niners were No. 1 in the league in pass defense, second in total defense, and fourth in sacks while making it to the Super Bowl before losing to the Kansas City Chiefs. They were sixth in the league with 27 ftakeaways and used their team speed to pressure opponents into mistakes.
This season, the 49ers suffered season-ending injuries to top pass rusher Nick Bosa and Pro Bowl inside linebacker Fred Warner and remained an effective defense. They had the fewest sacks in the league (20), but blitzed less and limited big plays.
Saleh has shown an ability to adapt to his personnel.
“His defense couldn’t be more different than when he was here before,” 49ers and former Ravens fullback Kyle Juszczyk told The Athletic. “It’s evolved so much. It’s not just ‘rush four and play Cover 3 behind it.’ He mixes up looks more, he disguises things and he blitzes more. And it’s totally working.”