Robert Saleh Advances in Titans Coaching Search

Robert Saleh is inching closer to a return as a head coach.

He is among three known finalists for the head coaching position with the Titans, competing with Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Reports from ESPN and NFL Network indicate that Saleh is viewed as a “strong candidate.”

After coaching the Jets from 2021 to 2024, Saleh was initially set to conduct a virtual meeting with the Titans on Sunday. However, his meeting was shifted to an in-person discussion on Monday, likely because the team felt they had enough information to proceed.

Saleh’s season with the 49ers came to an end after a playoff loss to the Seahawks, where they faced a tough 41-6 defeat in the divisional round.

The past season marked a sort of reset for Saleh, who struggled with the Jets, finishing 20-36 over three-plus seasons before his mid-season dismissal. Upon returning to the 49ers, he worked under head coach Kyle Shanahan but dealt with significant injuries to key players, including edge rusher Joey Bosa and linebacker Fred Warner.

It didn’t take long for interviews to be lined up once the Titans’ vacancy became public. Besides the Titans, Saleh has also spoken with the Cardinals, Ravens, and Dolphins.

Reflecting on his ambitions, Saleh mentioned in a December podcast that every coach aims for excellence in their profession, stating his humblest goal was to lead his team to the playoffs and potentially to a Super Bowl.

As the focus shifts to what’s next for Saleh, the Titans are banking on the potential of rookie quarterback Cam Ward, who was the top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the team faced a challenging season, ending at 3-13, which led to the firing of second-year coach Brian Callahan in October.