The 49ers' approach to replacing Nick Sorensen, relieved of his defensive coordinator duties after the season, has been described as "Saleh or bust." However, the longer the 49ers wait for Saleh and the Jaguars' decision, the fewer contingency options remain.
Fans hoping for a quick resolution from the Jaguars this weekend might need to temper their expectations. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the two candidates interviewing this week—Saleh and Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham—are not considered the two finalists for the job.
Rapoport suggests Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore are strong contenders. Both, however, remain focused on their respective teams' playoff runs as the Bills and Eagles prepare for their conference championship games this weekend.
Saleh served as the 49ers' defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, and his leadership was instrumental in the team reaching Super Bowl LIV during the 2019 season.
Should the Bills or Eagles advance to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, the 49ers' wait for Saleh could extend even further—unless the Jaguars make it known that he is no longer in contention for their vacancy.
In other words, sit tight, Niner fans. A decision on Saleh's future may not come as quickly as hoped.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Roger Craig's long wait ends as 49ers legend finally takes his place in Canton
"When you're the first to do something, that in and of itself is Hall of Fame material." That was the response former San Francisco 49ers and Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott gave me when I asked why his former teammate, RB Roger Craig, deserved to be inducted into the Pro... -
Why Kaelon Black believes the 49ers' offense can unlock his potential
San Francisco 49ers rookie running back Kaelon Black recorded just 42 receiving yards during his two seasons at Indiana. However, he showcased his ability as a receiver during his two seasons at James Madison, where he totaled 431 receiving yards and six receiving... -
Why Kyle Shanahan felt comfortable sitting the 49ers starters vs. Titans
San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Alfred Collins is projected to start this season, and he played Thursday night against the Tennessee Titans. Aside from Collins, however, the rest of the 49ers' projected starters sat out the preseason opener. Meanwhile, the Titans played... -
49ers' Mac Jones explains why De'Zhaun Stribling, evolving receiving corps has him excited
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones has had little trouble building chemistry with the team's revamped receiving corps. In fact, he's eager to see what the group can accomplish in 2026. One player who has particularly caught Jones' attention is rookie De'Zhaun Stribling,...