Robert Saleh could help the 49ers bolster their defensive line in a big way
The San Francisco 49ers have brought back defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. While this move is great for the vibes of both the locker room and the fanbase, it could also help the Niners lure back some talent on the defensive line.
The Niners struggled with injuries and poor play on both their offensive and defensive lines in 2024, which probably played a big role in their disappointing 6-11 record.
If they want to turn things around in 2025, rebuilding their strength in the trenches should be a big priority.
Specifically on the defensive line, the Niners took a big hit early in the season when they lost defensive tackle Javon Hargrave to a season-ending injury.
If San Francisco wants to strengthen the defensive line, there are several familiar faces available in free agency who could benefit the team.
Perhaps both sides would be eager for a reunion, especially with Saleh in the room.
Javon Kinlaw
The 49ers drafted Javon Kinlaw in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft to replace DeForest Buckner after they traded him to the Indianapolis Colts. Things never fully worked out in San Francisco, but Kinlaw had a solid 2024 season with the New Yotk Jets.
Kinlaw recorded 4.5 sacks on the year and 40 combined tackles while starting all 17 games for New York. It is worth noting Saleh was still the head coach of the Jets when they signed Kinlaw, so it would not be the craziest thing for the former South Carolina standout to follow Saleh back to the Bay Area.
Charles Omenihu
Saleh and defensive end Charles Omenihu did not overlap in San Francisco as Omenihu came over in a trade with the Houston Texans in 2021 and stayed through 2022 after Saleh’s original departure, but the 49ers may be wise to bring back the edge rusher as an important depth piece for the team.
San Francisco might already have Nick Bosa and Leonard Floyd on the edge, but Omenihu could be a great option to substitute in for either player and give them a breather throughout games.
Omenihu had seven sacks with the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2023 season but only one sack in the 2024 regular season in six games as he dealt with injuries.
His injury history could allow San Francisco to bring him back on a cheaper deal and give the D-line some essential depth.
D.J. Jones
Defensive tackle D.J. Jones was drafted by the Niners in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, which is the first year that Saleh was the defensive coordinator. Our own Peter Panacy recently made a persuasive case for San Francisco to bring back Jones.
Jones spent the first five years of his NFL career in San Francisco and turned himself into a solid defensive tackle. He has continued his solid play with the Denver Broncos and would be a very welcome presence in the interior of San Francisco’s defensive line next season.
The 49ers clearly need to make their defensive line a strength again. Saleh’s return could entice these former Ninerss to return to San Francisco, which would provide a big boost to the defense as a whole.