Robert Saleh was seen as one of the best defensive coordinators in football when he was hired by the New York Jets as their head coach in 2021. The former 49ers defensive coordinator, Saleh helped New York establish its toughest defense since Rex Ryan and the 2010 Jets.
The 2023 Jets ranked No. 2 in total defense and up to his firing, the Jets remained in the top five. In 2024, the Jets averaged 17 points per game allowed and since his firing, the number has increased to 30.
Saleh is also credited with the development of superstars Quinnen Williams, Quincy Williams, Sauce Gardner, and Will McDonald IV, who is currently ranked second in sacks.
Saleh is a brilliant defensive mind who has been a massive contributor on multiple coaching staffs, including Seattle’s legion of boom and the 2019 NFC champion 49ers. He may be a former rival, but the Rams should consider hiring Saleh as a defensive consultant on Chris Shula’s staff, similar to legendary offensive line coach Mike Munchak consulting with Los Angeles.
A consultant role allows Saleh to help teach some new defensive strategies while not necessarily requiring him to move from his home in New York. It also lays the framework for his potential hiring. While there will be some interest from the NFL for head coaching roles, there have been quiet whispers that he could be the defensive coordinator for the 49ers again. Also, some have speculated about a potential pairing with Saints OC Klint Kubiak if he gets a head coaching job. Both are connected through Saleh’s time on the staff of Gary Kubiak – Klint’s dad – in Houston.
However, nothing is written in stone and when you consider that the futures of DC Chris Shula and assistant head coach Aubrey Pleasant may be unknown, Saleh could be a perfect fit in those roles.
The Rams and Saleh have another connection through offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. LaFleur was Saleh’s first offensive coordinator in New York and Mike’s brother, Green Bay Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur, is close friends with Saleh. Matt LaFleur was Sean McVay’s first-ever offensive coordinator in 2017.
Saleh has the skills, relationships and desires that the Rams could potentially need on their staff next season. A consultant role fits both parties’ current needs, acquiring knowledge from Saleh while keeping him away enough so he doesn’t learn too much about the team should he go elsewhere. For Saleh, he gets to remain close to the NFL while also staying close to his family.
It’s a win-win partnership.