“No! I WON’T!!” Jets’ Robert Saleh Rejects Contract Offer from 49ers to Become Defensive Coordinator, Stays with New York
By Sports Insider News Staff – January 29, 2025
In a stunning and emphatic decision, New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh has rejected an offer from the San Francisco 49ers to become their defensive coordinator. The former 49ers DC, who led one of the league’s top defenses during his time in San Francisco before taking the head coaching job in New York, made it abundantly clear that he has no intention of stepping down from his leadership role with the Jets.
When approached with the opportunity, Saleh’s response was firm and unwavering:
“No! I WON’T!!”
His rejection of the 49ers’ offer has sent shockwaves across the NFL, leaving fans, analysts, and executives questioning why Saleh turned down a return to one of the league’s most dominant teams and what this means for both organizations moving forward.
The 49ers’ Aggressive Pursuit of Saleh
The San Francisco 49ers entered the offseason looking for a new defensive coordinator following the departure of Steve Wilks, who was relieved of his duties after the team’s disappointing defensive performance in key games. Head coach Kyle Shanahan and 49ers executives immediately set their sights on Robert Saleh, who had previously orchestrated one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive units in San Francisco from 2017 to 2020.
Recognizing Saleh’s deep understanding of their defensive philosophy, the 49ers aggressively pursued him, offering a lucrative contract that would have made him one of the highest-paid defensive coordinators in NFL history.
A high-ranking source within the 49ers’ organization revealed:
“Kyle Shanahan and the front office made it clear—they wanted Saleh back. They believed that he was the perfect guy to restore their defense to elite status. They put a serious offer on the table, and they were willing to make him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the league.”
Despite the enticing financial package and a return to a Super Bowl-contending roster, Saleh didn’t hesitate to turn it down.
Why Did Robert Saleh Reject the 49ers?
Several key factors played into Saleh’s firm decision to stay in New York rather than return to his former role in San Francisco:
1. Unfinished Business with the Jets
Since taking over as the head coach of the Jets in 2021, Saleh has faced immense challenges. From quarterback instability to roster-building struggles, his tenure in New York has been anything but smooth. However, after years of rebuilding, Saleh firmly believes that the Jets are on the verge of something special.
Insiders close to Saleh have indicated that his decision was fueled by his determination to finish what he started in New York.
“Robert Saleh isn’t a quitter. He’s not about to walk away from this team just because things have been tough. He sees the vision, he believes in his players, and he knows they’re close to turning the corner.”
By rejecting San Francisco’s offer, Saleh is making a bold statement—he is committed to leading the Jets to success, no matter how difficult the road may be.
2. Stepping Down Would Be a Career Setback
While San Francisco’s defensive coordinator position would have brought financial rewards, it would also have been a significant step backward in Saleh’s career.
As a head coach, Saleh controls an entire franchise. Going back to being a coordinator—even with a top-tier team like the 49ers—would have damaged his long-term aspirations in the NFL.
A prominent league executive commented on this dynamic:
“If Saleh had taken the 49ers’ offer, it would’ve signaled that he didn’t believe in himself as a head coach anymore. That’s not who he is. He’s not ready to give up on leading a team. He wants to prove that he can succeed in New York.”
3. Belief in the Jets’ Future
Despite the frustrations and setbacks the Jets have endured, Saleh remains confident that the pieces are in place for the team to succeed. With a strong defense, young talent, and potential upgrades at quarterback, he believes the Jets can compete for the playoffs and beyond.
Former Jets great and Hall of Famer Joe Namath weighed in on Saleh’s decision, stating:
“I respect him for sticking with the Jets. A lot of people would’ve walked away, but Saleh sees what’s coming. He knows this team is getting closer to being a real contender.”
4. Loyalty to His Players and Staff
One of Saleh’s greatest strengths as a coach is his ability to connect with players and build trust within the locker room. Walking away from his coaching staff and players in New York would have sent the wrong message—one that Saleh was unwilling to deliver.
Jets defensive star Quinnen Williams reacted to the news of Saleh’s decision with excitement:
“Coach Saleh is our leader. We believe in him, and we know he believes in us. We’re going to fight for him just like he fights for us.”
By staying, Saleh reaffirms his commitment to his players and the culture he has built in New York.
What This Means for the Jets and the 49ers
For the Jets: A Statement of Stability
Saleh’s decision to stay with the Jets is a major win for stability in New York.
For years, the franchise has been plagued by coaching turnover and constant change. By rejecting the 49ers, Saleh is proving that he is fully committed to seeing his vision through, which could have a positive impact on player morale and team cohesion.
A Jets insider summarized the situation:
“This is exactly what the Jets need—consistency. Saleh’s staying means no more resets, no more chaos. The team can build on what they’ve started instead of starting over again.”
For the 49ers: A Setback in Their Coaching Search
The 49ers’ failure to lure Saleh back is a significant blow to their offseason plans.
They had hoped to restore defensive dominance by bringing back one of the best defensive minds in the game, but now they must shift their focus to other candidates.
A source close to the 49ers admitted:
“We knew it was a long shot, but we really wanted him. Now we have to move on and find another DC who can keep this defense playing at an elite level.”
With other top defensive minds still available, San Francisco will need to quickly pivot to secure the right hire before the start of the offseason programs.
Final Thoughts: Saleh’s Powerful Message
Robert Saleh’s decision to stay in New York sends a strong message—he is not giving up on the Jets, no matter how enticing other opportunities may be.
His emphatic rejection of the 49ers’ lucrative offer proves that he is a leader who refuses to abandon his team, even in difficult times.
His passionate response—“No! I WON’T!!”—has become a rallying cry for Jets fans, who now have even more reason to believe that their coach is all-in on bringing success to New York.
For the 49ers, this rejection is a reminder that not every coach will jump at the chance to join a Super Bowl contender. If they want to build another elite defense, they’ll need to look elsewhere and find a new leader for their defense.
But for Robert Saleh and the New York Jets, this is a defining moment—one that signals commitment, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the future.
Jets fans, buckle up—because Robert Saleh isn’t going anywhere.
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