As the 2025 NFL season rolls on, the San Francisco 49ers continue to be one of the league’s most exciting teams, and with that comes plenty of rumors and news surrounding the team. Two of the most prominent names associated with the 49ers recently are former defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and star wide receiver Deebo Samuel. Both have been subjects of intense speculation regarding their roles, future, and impact on the team. In this article, we’ll dive into the latest rumors and updates on these two key figures in the 49ers’ universe.
### Robert Saleh: The Former 49ers Coordinator’s Future in the NFL
Robert Saleh, who served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2020, is now the head coach of the New York Jets. However, his name continues to come up in rumors around the NFL, especially when it comes to coaching vacancies, team performance, and potential reunions with the 49ers.
#### Jets’ Struggles & Saleh’s Job Security
The New York Jets, under Saleh’s leadership, have shown flashes of potential, but they’ve also been mired in inconsistency, particularly at the quarterback position. As of early 2025, the Jets are still battling with their own issues, and many have questioned Saleh’s future with the team if they don’t see significant improvement in the near future. While Saleh’s defensive prowess is unquestioned, the offense’s struggles have often overshadowed the positive aspects of his coaching.
Despite the Jets’ struggles, Saleh’s reputation as a defensive mastermind remains strong, and he is highly regarded around the NFL for his leadership skills, his ability to build a tough, hard-nosed defense, and his work with young players. His defensive schemes in San Francisco, particularly during the team’s run to Super Bowl LIV, were a significant part of the 49ers’ success. It’s no surprise that rumors about Saleh potentially returning to the 49ers have surfaced over the years, especially as the 49ers’ defense continues to perform at a high level under their current defensive coordinator, Steve Wilks.
However, with the 49ers flourishing on defense under Wilks in 2025, the likelihood of a Saleh return to San Francisco in the immediate future seems slim. Wilks has fit in seamlessly, and the 49ers’ defensive unit continues to be one of the best in the league. Still, NFL fans know that coaching changes happen quickly, and if the Jets’ situation worsens or if Saleh’s tenure ends prematurely in New York, it’s not out of the question that Saleh could eventually find himself back in San Francisco—whether as a defensive coordinator or head coach remains to be seen.
#### The 49ers’ D-Line and Saleh’s Impact
The biggest impact Saleh had during his tenure in San Francisco was the development of the 49ers’ defensive line, which became one of the most formidable in the league. Under Saleh’s guidance, players like Nick Bosa, DeForest Buckner, and Arik Armstead flourished, creating a defensive front that was nearly impossible to stop. Even after Saleh’s departure, the defensive line remained a key pillar of the 49ers’ success.
Saleh’s philosophy of building a strong, relentless defensive front and relying on a four-man pass rush has remained an integral part of the 49ers’ defensive identity. The 49ers’ current defense, led by Wilks, has maintained the same philosophy Saleh instilled during his tenure, with Bosa continuing to be one of the most dominant edge rushers in the NFL.
### Deebo Samuel: Contract Negotiations and Future with the 49ers
Deebo Samuel, the dynamic wide receiver and weapon in the 49ers’ offense, is another player whose name has been frequently in the news, especially regarding contract talks, his role in the offense, and the team’s future plans. Samuel has been one of the NFL’s most versatile and dangerous playmakers, known for his ability to line up both in the backfield and as a traditional receiver. His combination of speed, strength, and agility has made him one of the most valuable assets for the 49ers, particularly in their run-heavy offense.
#### Contract Extension Rumors
One of the biggest stories surrounding Samuel in recent months has been his contract situation. Samuel signed a three-year, $73.5 million extension with the 49ers ahead of the 2022 season, but there has been speculation that the team could look to extend him further or rework his contract in the coming years. With Samuel’s continued success and the 49ers’ reliance on him in both the passing and running games, the franchise will likely want to lock him in for the long term.
However, there’s been growing chatter that Samuel’s contract situation could become a sticking point if he continues to be one of the highest-paid players on the team. The 49ers already have significant salary cap commitments to several key players, including quarterback Brock Purdy, defensive stars like Nick Bosa, and offensive stars like George Kittle. Balancing these big contracts while ensuring Samuel remains a centerpiece of the offense will be a challenge for general manager John Lynch and the 49ers’ front office.
Given the way Samuel has consistently delivered for the 49ers in clutch moments, including key runs and receptions, it’s safe to assume that the 49ers want to keep him happy and in San Francisco for the long haul. Still, contract negotiations can be tricky in the NFL, especially when dealing with a player of Samuel’s caliber, and it’s likely that both sides will have to come to an agreement that reflects his value while maintaining the financial stability of the team.
#### The 49ers’ Offensive Plans with Deebo Samuel
As the 49ers’ offense evolves, Samuel remains a central figure. His versatility is unmatched, and head coach Kyle Shanahan has used him in a variety of ways to maximize his impact. Samuel’s ability to line up in the backfield, catch passes, and create big plays in both the short and deep game makes him a unique weapon that few teams can replicate.
In 2025, the 49ers’ offense has continued to emphasize a balanced attack, with Purdy’s development as a quarterback and the emergence of running back Christian McCaffrey playing pivotal roles. However, Samuel’s ability to be a game-changer, whether as a rusher or a receiver, continues to set him apart. Shanahan’s system thrives on playmakers like Samuel who can change the course of a game with a single touch.
If the 49ers continue to rely on Samuel as a dual-threat weapon, it will be critical to manage his health and usage. Injuries have been a concern in the past, especially given how often Samuel is involved in running plays, which exposes him to hits and tackles. Keeping him fresh and healthy will be key for the 49ers as they look to make another deep playoff run.
#### Potential Trade Rumors
While the 49ers have shown no desire to trade Deebo Samuel, the NFL is always rife with speculation, and there have been some rumors surrounding his future in San Francisco. Some have questioned whether the 49ers might be willing to move on from Samuel if it helps them strengthen other areas of the roster, such as the offensive line or defensive backfield. However, considering Samuel’s importance to the offense and his high value, the idea of trading him seems unlikely.
Any potential trade rumors would likely be tied to whether the 49ers feel they can improve in other areas without losing Samuel’s dynamic playmaking ability. However, given the success the 49ers have had with Samuel in the fold, it’s highly probable that the team will continue to build around him as one of the cornerstones of their offense.
### Conclusion
The San Francisco 49ers continue to make headlines in the NFL as both Robert Saleh’s future and Deebo Samuel’s role with the team remain prominent topics of discussion. While Saleh has found success as the head coach of the New York Jets, rumors persist about a potential return to San Francisco—though for now, it seems unlikely. Meanwhile, Deebo Samuel’s contract situation and his importance to the 49ers’ offensive attack will continue to be central to the team’s plans in the coming years.
As the 49ers aim for another Super Bowl run, the futures of Saleh and Samuel will undoubtedly be important storylines to follow. Whether it’s Saleh potentially returning to the team or Samuel’s long-term future with the 49ers, these two figures will continue to shape the narrative around one of the NFL’s most exciting franchises.
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