The Las Vegas Raiders are headed toward a major offseason shakeup, and multiple reports indicate that San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh is once again on their radar.
With the Raiders sitting at 2-11 and Pete Carroll’s future increasingly uncertain, insiders have pointed to Saleh as a name gaining internal traction. Las Vegas explored the idea last year, even offering him a significant deal to join as defensive coordinator with a clear succession plan to Pete Carroll in place.
The Las Vegas #Raiders made Robert Saleh a massive offer this offseason to be their Defensive Coordinator — and the eventual successor to Pete Carroll, per @ConorOrr.
— 49ers & NFL News 24/7 (@49ersSportsTalk) December 11, 2025
But the #49ers outbid Vegas and Saleh wanted to return home to SF. Huge win for the Niners. pic.twitter.com/yKCiPZrBov
While Saleh declined at the time, his work in San Francisco has only strengthened his case for another head coaching opportunity.
Saleh’s Resurgence Boosts His Coaching Stock
Despite losing defensive stars including Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, Saleh has coached the 49ers to a top-ten ranking in points allowed while relying heavily on young depth pieces.
His ability to stabilize an injury-ravaged unit has revived league-wide respect for his defensive acumen after a turbulent stint with the New York Jets.
𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗦: The Raiders made Robert Saleh a very lucrative offer this offseason to be the team’s DC and heir apparent to Pete Carroll once he retired, per @ConorOrr
— JPA (@jasrifootball) December 11, 2025
With the Raiders’ struggles this season, it’s not out of the picture that they re-visit with Saleh, who will… pic.twitter.com/faFMOogDU9
Sources believe the Raiders appreciate his leadership style and defensive identity, yet the question remains whether Saleh would leave a stable contender for a franchise struggling to find direction and a long-term quarterback.
Would Saleh Take the Raiders Job?
Saleh will have options, as several teams are expected to enter the coaching market, including the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants. His next move will depend on organizational stability and quarterback outlook, two areas where the Raiders are still searching for answers.
For now, Saleh’s priority remains keeping the 49ers in the playoff hunt, but if Las Vegas does part ways with Carroll, league insiders fully expect them to revisit their pursuit of the respected defensive mind.
Photo Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
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