Robert Saleh lands Titans job: Former Jets coach set to lead Tennessee’s rebuild after 3–14 season

The Tennessee Titans are finalizing a deal to hire Robert Saleh as their next head coach, a move that signals a decisive shift toward defensive leadership and long-term rebuilding. Multiple reports confirm that Saleh, currently the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive coordinator and former New York Jets head coach, impressed Titans executives during an in-person meeting in Nashville, prompting the franchise to move quickly to secure his services.

If completed, the deal will make Saleh the 20th head coach in Oilers/Titans history and the seventh since the team relocated to Nashville in 1997, placing him at the center of one of the NFL’s most pivotal rebuilds heading into the 2026 season.

Why the Titans Chose Robert Saleh

Saleh emerged as the frontrunner after a competitive interview process that included Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. Originally scheduled for a virtual interview, Saleh was fast-tracked to an in-person meeting, a move that proved decisive.

Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi and team leadership were reportedly impressed by Saleh’s leadership presence, accountability standards, and ability to connect with players across the roster. Those traits align closely with what the Titans identified as missing during a turbulent 2025 campaign.

Tennessee finished 3–14, firing head coach Brian Callahan midway through the season and ranking among the league’s lowest-scoring offenses.

A Second Chance at Head Coaching

This will be Robert Saleh’s second NFL head-coaching stint. He previously led the New York Jets from 2021 to 2024, finishing with a 20–36 record. While the Jets struggled in the standings, Saleh’s tenure was shaped by instability at quarterback, including Aaron Rodgers’ season-ending Achilles injury in 2023 and an abrupt coaching dismissal five games into the 2024 season.

Since then, Saleh returned to San Francisco, where he rebuilt his reputation as a defensive tactician. Despite injuries to stars like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, the 49ers finished the 2025 season allowing the 13th-fewest points in the NFL, a testament to Saleh’s system adaptability and discipline.

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What Saleh Brings to Tennessee

Known for his aggressive, high-energy defensive schemes, Saleh’s first priority will be reshaping a Titans roster that ranked near the bottom of the league in scoring, averaging just 16.7 points per game.

Equally important is the development of quarterback Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in 2025. Saleh is expected to prioritize hiring a strong offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach to accelerate Ward’s growth and stabilize the offense.

Saleh has openly stated that one of his biggest lessons from New York was the importance of connecting with the entire locker room, not just star player, a philosophy that mirrors Borgonzi’s vision for the franchise.

Impact on the NFL Coaching Carousel

Saleh’s hiring also reshapes the broader NFL head-coaching market. He had been scheduled for a second interview with the Arizona Cardinals, who are now expected to pivot quickly to other candidates.

Meanwhile, the Titans’ move ends weeks of speculation about whether the franchise would favor an offensive mind or defensive leader. With Saleh, Tennessee is clearly betting on culture, discipline, and long-term structure.

Looking Ahead: A Defining Era for the Titans

The timing is notable. The Titans are preparing to enter a new stadium in 2027, making Saleh’s appointment as much about future identity as immediate results. With a young quarterback, significant draft capital, and a reset roster, Saleh has an opportunity to define the franchise’s next chapter.

Whether this second head-coaching stint becomes a redemption arc will depend on how quickly Tennessee can translate defensive stability into offensive growth, and wins.

FAQ

Who hired Robert Saleh as head coach?

The Tennessee Titans are finalizing a deal to hire Robert Saleh as their next head coach.

When will Robert Saleh officially become Titans coach?

An official announcement is expected soon, pending final contract completion.

What teams has Robert Saleh coached before?

Saleh previously coached the New York Jets (2021–24) and served multiple stints as San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator.

Why did the Titans choose Robert Saleh?

The Titans were impressed by Saleh’s leadership style, defensive expertise, and emphasis on team culture and accountability.

What was Robert Saleh’s record with the Jets?

He finished with a 20–36 record, with his tenure impacted by quarterback injuries and roster instability.

What is Saleh’s biggest challenge in Tennessee?

Developing Cam Ward, rebuilding the offense, and restoring competitiveness after a 3–14 season.

Did Robert Saleh interview with other teams?

Yes. Saleh was scheduled to interview with the Arizona Cardinals before Tennessee moved quickly to finalize a deal.

Is Robert Saleh considered a defensive coach?

Yes. He is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s most respected defensive-minded coaches.