The San Francisco 49ers' 2025 offseason has been defined by the team's moves to lock up its talent long-term. Extensions for Brock Purdy, George Kittle, and Fred Warner have given the fan base reason for excitement. Perhaps last season's struggles were simply an outlier, and with the core still locked into place, things can return to the level of performance fans have grown accustomed to. It is a fair expectation when you consider the talent still on the roster and the playoff experience. Lost in all of this excitement is yet another change at defensive coordinator.
After a failed stint as the New York Jets head coach, Robert Saleh has returned to San Francisco. The veteran coach saw his tenure with the Jets doomed by poor quarterback play. Aaron Rodgers and Zach Wilson gave the 49ers the chance to make the coaching move of the offseason. Saleh's defensive intensity is a missing piece for the franchise. One that tight-end George Kittle wasted no time pointing out when asked about the new addition.
49ers Pass Catchers George Kittle Hypes the Return of Robert Saleh
George Kittle issued a warning to the NFL with Robert Saleh's return to the #49ers.
— 49ers Webzone (@49erswebzone) June 18, 2025
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Kittle pointed out that Saleh's return was a story that was going overlooked and that fans should understand that "violence is coming." In Kittle's lovably dramatic way, the tight-end is pointing out the obvious for San Francisco. A team that had previously been defined by a high level of physicality and inside presence wasn't beating anyone on the inside consistently.
The defensive front was bullied, and the trickle down of this resulted in a step back in other position groups. A defense that was known for playing with an edge all but lost its defining trait. The return of Saleh is going to change this and give the fan base further hope that better days are ahead. Kittle is helping to drive this point home.
For Saleh, it is an unfair change based on the talent and leadership of the head coach. However, it was a needed move based on the Jets' results and gives the 49ers a chance to quietly make the coaching move of the offseason, bringing back the veteran.