49ers Face Uncertainty in Defensive Coordinator Search as Saleh Emerges as Jaguars Favorite

With Robert Saleh likely to pursue a head coaching role, the 49ers explore alternative defensive coordinator candidates, including Pete Carroll.

Robert Saleh, a former 49ers defensive coordinator, is now a leading candidate for the Jacksonville Jaguars head coaching position after Liam Coen withdrew from consideration.
Saleh is scheduled to meet with Jaguars owner Shad Khan and other team officials later this week, fueling speculation about his departure from the 49ers' candidate pool.
The 49ers have reportedly offered Saleh a lucrative contract to return as their defensive coordinator, but his interest in head coaching roles appears to take precedence.
San Francisco is considering other options, including internal candidate Brandon Staley and external candidates like Pete Carroll, who is also in contention for the Las Vegas Raiders head coaching job.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan has expressed admiration for Carroll's defensive philosophy, which aligns with the 49ers' existing scheme, though Carroll's potential hiring remains speculative.