NFL rumors: Browns not hiring 49ers' Robert Saleh as next head coach

The 49ers' defense dominated the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday in the divisional round of the NFC playoffs. San Francisco allowed only 147 total yards, sacked quarterback Kirk Cousins six times and held star running back Dalvin Cook to just 18 yards on nine carries. 

And yet, apparently, the Cleveland Browns were watching a different game.

Robert Saleh, the 49ers' defensive coordinator, was a top candidate to be Cleveland's next head coach. But NFL Media's Ian Rapoport reported Sunday morning that the Browns will tab Vikings offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski for the vacancy. 

This, obviously, is great news for the 49ers. Saleh, 40, quickly has turned San Francisco into one of the most feared defenses in the NFL. That was on full display Saturday in the 49ers' 27-10 win

[RELATED: Super Bowl is 49ers' to lose with Lamar, Ravens out of way]

Saleh is set to return to the 49ers next season as all the open head-coaching positions now are full. He should be a top candidate in future years, and only will help his case if San Francisco wins the Super Bowl. 

San Francisco 49ers

Find the latest San Francisco 49ers news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.

49ers select Texas DT Alfred Collins at No. 43 overall pick in 2025 NFL Draft

2025 NFL Draft live updates: 49ers' Day 2 picks, highlights, news, analysis

Saturday was a huge win for the 49ers, who only are one victory away from the Super Bowl LIV in Miami. Sunday also was one for the win column, too.

Contact Us