Speculation had been rampant ever since Aaron Glenn emerged as a top candidate for a head coaching role in the 2025 season.

Many Detroit Lions fans and media outlets had floated the idea of head coach Dan Campbell recruiting former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh to fill the defensive coordinator position. However, that possibility is now off the table.

Recent reports confirm that Robert Saleh will not be heading to the Detroit Lions.

Instead, he is set to return to the San Francisco 49ers, where he will once again serve as their defensive coordinator.

Saleh excelled in this role before taking over as head coach of the Jets and is now rejoining the team that helped elevate his career.

Saleh’s decision to return to the 49ers marks a major development.

While his Michigan roots—he’s originally from Dearborn—led many to believe he might make his way back to Detroit, it’s evident that he views his future in San Francisco.

This announcement has left some Lions fans disappointed, as many hoped Saleh could revitalize Detroit’s defense.

Now that he’s out of contention, the Lions will need to continue exploring internal and external options to replace Aaron Glenn, should he secure a head coaching role.