The San Francisco 49ers conducted the first two interviews for their vacant defensive coordinator position, talking to a familiar face and a new name on Thursday. Former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh and Detroit Lions defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator Deshea Townsend were the first two candidates to secure an interview.
Saleh, of course, was the 49ers defensive coordinator from 2017-2020, helping spearhead one of the team’s stronger defenses under Kyle Shanahan, built by a strong front seven.
He parlayed his success into a head coaching role with the Jets, but quarterback issues plagued his career there, leading to his dismissal this past season.