San Francisco 49ers Seek Coordinator to Revitalize Defense After 2024 Struggles

The San Francisco 49ers, known for their formidable defense, are on the hunt for a new defensive coordinator following a lackluster 2024 season where their defense failed to live up to expectations. Their search may bring them back to a familiar face—Robert Saleh, who once led that very unit. With a Super Bowl appearance under his belt in 2019, Saleh’s return could be exactly what the 49ers need to return to their elite defensive form.

Saleh’s Potential Return: The Familiar Solution

The 49ers officially announced Thursday that they had completed an interview with Robert Saleh, the former defensive coordinator for San Francisco from 2017 to 2020. During his tenure, Saleh led a defense that was instrumental in the 49ers’ Super Bowl 54 appearance. Now, after being fired as head coach of the New York Jets in October, Saleh is seeking a return to the Bay Area. While his next move might lead him to interviews with other teams, such as the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Las Vegas Raiders, his connection with the 49ers could see him reclaiming the role of defensive coordinator.

The Alternative: DeShea Townsend’s Unique Approach

In addition to Saleh, the 49ers have also interviewed DeShea Townsend, the defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach for the Detroit Lions. Townsend brings a different approach to the table, having been a critical figure in the Lions’ defense, which used the highest rate of Cover 1 in the entire NFL during the 2024 season. His work with the Lions has drawn the attention of 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, who has praised the secondary’s effectiveness despite injuries. If Townsend were to join the 49ers, it would mark a significant departure from the traditional zone-heavy scheme they’ve run under previous coordinators.

Shanahan’s Thoughts on the 49ers’ Defensive Scheme

Shanahan has been vocal about his belief in the 49ers’ defensive scheme but recognizes the need for adjustments. The Cover 3 system that has been the cornerstone of the 49ers’ defense since his tenure began has shown vulnerabilities in recent seasons, especially when dealing with injuries. Shanahan’s comments indicate that the defense may need to evolve, calling for flexibility in adjusting to specific game situations. While Shanahan is not suggesting a complete overhaul of the scheme, he sees value in finding a coordinator who has the experience and tactical knowledge to adapt when necessary.

Saleh vs. Townsend: Two Very Different Paths

While both Saleh and Townsend bring impressive credentials, their defensive philosophies are starkly different. Saleh is known for sticking to the 49ers’ traditional defensive approach—rushing four players while predominantly playing zone coverage. Shanahan’s familiarity with Saleh’s methods makes this an attractive option, but the challenge would lie in whether Saleh can adapt to the evolving needs of the 49ers’ defense.

On the other hand, Townsend’s work with the Lions’ aggressive, man-coverage-heavy scheme introduces a different mindset. Shanahan himself has expressed admiration for the Lions’ secondary, especially their ability to apply pressure and make quick adjustments on the fly. If Townsend were to be hired, it would require significant changes to the 49ers’ defensive philosophy, but Shanahan may believe that a fresh perspective could help elevate the defense to new heights.

A Rapid Search with High Stakes

The 49ers are not wasting any time in their search for a new defensive coordinator. Both Saleh and Townsend represent vastly different approaches to defense, and Shanahan will need to weigh the merits of both candidates carefully. The outcome of this decision could determine whether the 49ers remain a top contender in the NFC or fall behind in a rapidly evolving league.

Whether it’s a return to the tried-and-true scheme under Saleh or an exciting shift with Townsend’s dynamic approach, the 49ers are looking for a defensive coordinator who can elevate their unit back to elite status. Only time will tell who the 49ers choose to lead their defense into the future.