Tennessee moves quickly to secure its top target
The Tennessee Titans are expected to hire Robert Saleh as their next head coach, according to reports from NFL Network. Saleh, currently the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator, was also scheduled to interview with the Arizona Cardinals, but Tennessee finalized a deal before that meeting could take place.
The move gives the Titans an experienced defensive-minded leader as they attempt to rebound from a difficult 2025 season that ended with a 3–14 record.
Second head coaching opportunity for Saleh
Saleh, 46, returns to a head coaching role after previously leading the New York Jets from 2021 to 2024. His tenure in New York resulted in a 20–36 record, with persistent instability at quarterback limiting the team’s progress.
Before that stint, Saleh built his reputation during his first run as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, helping establish one of the league’s most aggressive defensive units.
Strong defensive resume in San Francisco
Saleh’s most recent season with the 49ers came amid significant injuries, including season-ending issues to Nick Bosa and Fred Warner. Despite those setbacks, San Francisco finished with the league’s 13th-ranked scoring defense.
The 49ers posted a 12–5 regular-season record and remained in contention for the NFC’s top seed until the final week. Saleh is expected to call defensive plays in Tennessee, a responsibility he did not hold during his Jets tenure.
Rebuilding a struggling Titans defense
Tennessee’s defense ranked 28th in points allowed per game last season, giving up 28.1 points on average. Saleh’s arrival is expected to bring immediate structural and schematic upgrades on that side of the ball.
The Titans fired former head coach Brian Callahan in October after a 1–5 start, prompting a front office reset that put general manager Mike Borgonzi in charge of the coaching search.
Quarterback development a top priority
The success of Saleh’s tenure may ultimately hinge on his offensive coordinator hire. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward showed flashes of potential in his first NFL season, throwing for 3,169 yards with 15 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Ward’s continued development will be central to Tennessee’s rebuild as the franchise holds the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
