A New Era in Tennessee
The Titans have agreed to hire Saleh, the long‑time defensive coach and current defensive coordinator of the San Francisco 49ers, to lead a rebuilding franchise coming off a 3–14 season.
Saleh will become the next head coach for the Titans, replacing Brian Callahan — who was fired during the 2025 season — and interim coach Mike McCoy.
Who Is Robert Saleh?
Saleh, 46, brings a strong defensive resume to Tennessee.
He spent this season as San Francisco’s defensive coordinator in his second stint with the 49ers and previously held the same role from 2017–2020, helping build a dominant unit that reached the Super Bowl in the 2019 season.
Before that, Saleh was the head coach of the New York Jets from 2021 until early 2024, finishing with a 20–36 record before being released after a 2–3 start to the 2024 season.
Despite mixed results in New York, his leadership and defensive expertise have made him one of the most sought‑after candidates in this NFL coaching cycle.
Why the Titans Chose Saleh
Tennessee’s coaching search drew interest from several candidates, including Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy.
However, sources say the Titans’ ownership ultimately pushed for Saleh, impressed by his vision and energy during in‑person meetings in Nashville.
General manager Mike Borgonzi’s first major coaching hire for the franchise lands on a coach with extensive NFL experience and a reputation for connecting with players — a quality Borgonzi highlighted as critical in a coach.
What Comes Next
Saleh’s immediate priorities will include assembling his coaching staff and helping develop the Titans’ young roster, highlighted by second‑year quarterback Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Titans also enter the offseason with significant salary cap flexibility and a new stadium scheduled to open in 2027, key factors as they aim to reverse years of underperformance.
Outlook
Saleh’s hiring marks a pivotal moment for a franchise hungry for stability and progress.
With his defensive pedigree and second chance at head coaching, Tennessee’s fans and front office alike will be watching closely to see how he shapes the team’s direction in the coming seasons.
