The Tennessee Titans have found the new man to lead their franchise in former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
This is Saleh’s second head-coaching opportunity, as he led the New York Jets to a 20-36 record over more than three seasons. Saleh did an impressive job in San Francisco this past season, getting the most out of an injury-riddled defense and helping the 49ers reach the postseason and win a playoff game.
Titans Head Coach Robert Saleh Announces Key Adjustment
Now, the Titans are hoping Saleh can bring about a cultural change in Tennessee. It is reasonable to assume Saleh learned a great deal from his first stint as a head coach and will approach the role differently this time. One of the biggest changes will be his decision to serve as the defensive play-caller.
Saleh is one of the most respected coaches in the league. He has been a successful defensive coordinator for a long time and profiles as a strong head coach. According to Ari Meirov, Saleh made it clear he plans to call defensive plays, saying, “When I didn’t call plays, I felt like I was the timeout and red flag guy. I had the greatest seat in the house as a fan.”
#Titans HC Robert Saleh says he will call plays in Tennessee, which he didn’t do with the #Jets:
“When I didn’t call plays, I felt like I was the timeout and red flag guy. I had the greatest seat in the house as a fan.” https://t.co/GMtaA6y6Kg pic.twitter.com/RrCcCulfv5
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 29, 2026
Saleh intends to be more hands-on as a head coach this time. He will now have direct input into how the defense operates, a move that should excite Titans fans. During his tenure with the Jets from 2022 through 2024, Saleh’s defenses ranked No. 4, No. 3, and No. 3 in yards allowed per game.
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Saleh appears to be assembling a strong coaching staff for his first season in Tennessee. He recently hired former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator, making him one of the most notable additions on the market. Daboll excelled as offensive coordinator with the Buffalo Bills from 2018 through 2021 and now has the opportunity to help develop quarterback Cam Ward.
The Titans still need to hire a defensive coordinator, but with Saleh calling plays, that position will likely go to a younger coach. It will be worth watching how the Titans operate through the remainder of the offseason, but the team already appears better positioned from a coaching standpoint entering the 2026 season.
