The 49ers’ Dilemma: A Future Without a Clear Backup Plan

The San Francisco 49ers find themselves at a critical crossroads, with a glaring question looming over their defensive coordinator position: What happens if Robert Saleh moves on to bigger opportunities? As it stands, the 49ers’ entire strategy seems to hinge on the hope that their former defensive coordinator will return to Santa Clara, but there’s no obvious backup plan in sight.

Waiting for Saleh: A Gamble or a Sure Thing?

For the 49ers, the potential return of Robert Saleh represents more than just filling a coaching vacancy; it’s about securing a system and energy that has already proven successful. Saleh’s familiarity with the 49ers’ personnel and his symbiotic relationship with head coach Kyle Shanahan are critical assets. Saleh knows the system inside and out and has a proven track record of developing a strong defense. The team’s current approach seems to be entirely built around Saleh’s return, with reports indicating that the 49ers have even offered to make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the league. The current title-holder, Vic Fangio in Philadelphia, makes $4.5 million a year. If the 49ers land Saleh, they would be prepared to top that salary.

However, it’s risky to pin all hopes on a single individual. Saleh, with his experience as a head coach, is undoubtedly one of the best minds in football, but he could be lured away by an even more lucrative opportunity. Saleh’s departure wouldn’t just create a void on the defensive side; it would also leave the 49ers without a solid contingency plan. With only one other candidate—Jeff Ulbrich—having been interviewed so far, the lack of a Plan B is deeply concerning.

The Urgency of the Situation

The 49ers’ defense is currently in a rebuilding phase, and this isn’t the time to make a hire simply for continuity’s sake. The team needs the best person for the job, regardless of their long-term plans. Saleh is a motivator, an energizer on the sidelines, and someone who can help elevate the defense and transform it into a powerhouse. Even if he does leave after a season or two, his tenure would improve the defense immensely, setting the stage for future success. If the 49ers fail to land Saleh, they could be forced to choose between other candidates who, while capable, don’t have the same impact.

Exploring Other Candidates

In the event that Saleh opts for another head coaching job, the 49ers’ defensive coordinator search would likely turn to former New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen. While Allen is a respected defensive mind, there’s a risk that pairing him with Shanahan could lead to a lack of sideline energy. The 49ers’ defense has thrived in the past under high-energy coordinators, and Allen might not bring the spark the team needs.

Other potential candidates include Lou Anarumo, the former Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator, Gus Bradley, a respected defensive coach, and rising talents within the position coach ranks.

The Jacksonville Factor

Saleh’s potential departure to Jacksonville looms large, as he’s rumored to be a frontrunner for the Jaguars’ head coaching position. Saleh’s familiarity with the team and its ownership could make him an appealing choice for the Jags, and his departure would leave the 49ers scrambling. While Saleh is likely the best option, the 49ers need to be prepared for the worst-case scenario where they lose him to another team.

The Risk of Being Unprepared

It’s concerning that the 49ers haven’t solidified a backup plan. This is a team that was burned last year by a lack of a clear contingency, and it’s possible they could face similar setbacks again. If Saleh turns down their offer, the fallback plan seems to be either Jeff Ulbrich or Brandon Staley—both of whom, while competent, are a step down from Saleh. The 49ers can’t afford to keep relying on wishful thinking.

The Path Forward

If Saleh does decide to stay, it would be the best-case scenario for the 49ers. Pairing him with a new special teams coordinator and a strengthened defense would make the 49ers contenders once again. However, if things don’t go as planned, the team will need to get creative. There are still talented coaches out there, especially from teams still competing in the playoffs. Coaches like Deshea Townsend, who has impressed with his work with the Detroit Lions, and Chris Hewitt of the Baltimore Ravens could bring fresh ideas and valuable experience to the table.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment

For the San Francisco 49ers, this moment represents a pivotal choice in their coaching search. They’re at a point where their defensive coordinator hire could determine their future. If they secure Robert Saleh, they may return to championship contention. But if they miss out on him, the team may face years of uncertainty. At the end of the day, the 49ers can’t afford to wait forever. It’s time to take decisive action before the opportunity slips away.