Browns request permission to interview Robert Saleh

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cleveland Browns have requested permission to interview San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh for their head coaching position. We have a separate “Black Monday” thread that has all of the firings around the NFL, but this will likely be a theme. Now that the Niners have a bye week, it wouldn’t be surprising for Saleh to make the interview rounds this week. I would be surprised if Cleveland is the only job Saleh interviews for.

A good friend of mine that has ties to the Jaguars believes Saleh will be a strong candidate for Jacksonville as well. The Jaguars have plenty of former Seattle connections, and Saleh would continue that trend.

I know many fans may be worried about the preparation of the defense if Saleh is out interviewing, but that’s arguably the main reason he’s in this position. The 49ers defense is always prepared. Last night they were fantastic early on. The back seven that was out there played their best half of football that I’ve seen. That’s a credit to Saleh and the coaching staff for having them ready. Speaking of the staff, that’s what I’d be worried about if Saleh were to be hired as a coach for another team. He could poach guys like Kris Kocurek, Joe Woods, or DeMeco Ryans. All these of those guys are excellent teachers and coaches. If I’m Kyle Shanahan, I offer Woods the job and Kocurek and Ryans a raise, though it would be tough for anyone to turn down a coordinator position.

It should be a busy week for Saleh. We’ll see if any other team reaches out to interview the Niners’ defensive coordinator. As frustrating as some of the in-game adjustments are, Saleh is a good coach.