A Defensive Reunion in San Francisco?

Robert Saleh’s return to the San Francisco 49ers as defensive coordinator marks a significant shift for one of the NFL’s most dominant defenses. With the 49ers aiming to fortify their roster ahead of the 2025 season, Saleh may turn to some familiar faces—free agents from his former team, the New York Jets.

After a turbulent 2024 season for both the Jets and 49ers, key defensive players from New York may be looking for a fresh start. Here are three Jets free agents who could reunite with Saleh in San Francisco and help bolster an already formidable unit.

1. Cornerback D.J. Reed – A Familiar Face in the Secondary

D.J. Reed’s NFL journey began in San Francisco when the 49ers selected him in the fifth round of the 2018 draft. While injuries led to his departure before the 2020 season, he has since developed into a reliable starting cornerback with the Seahawks and Jets.

Reed joined the Jets in 2022 and played a crucial role alongside star cornerback Sauce Gardner. Despite not recording an interception in 2024, he remained a key defender, logging 11 passes defended and at least 62 total tackles for the fourth consecutive season.

San Francisco may have a major void to fill at cornerback if veteran Charvarius Ward leaves in free agency. Reed, 28, could be a cost-effective yet impactful replacement. With the 49ers projected to have over $46 million in cap space, investing around $10 million per year for a proven defensive back like Reed seems like a logical move.

Given the 49ers’ defensive struggles in 2024, Reed’s return to the Bay Area could help solidify the secondary and reestablish a dominant pass defense under Saleh’s guidance.

2. Defensive Tackle Javon Kinlaw – A Second Chance in San Francisco

Javon Kinlaw never quite lived up to his first-round expectations in San Francisco due to injuries, but he found a valuable role as a depth piece for the Jets under Saleh. Now, with his contract expiring, a return to the 49ers could be mutually beneficial.

After appearing in just 10 games across the 2021 and 2022 seasons, Kinlaw finally stayed healthy, playing every game since joining New York. In 2024, he recorded a career-high 40 tackles, proving he can be a reliable rotational piece in the trenches.

San Francisco still needs reinforcements on the defensive line, and Kinlaw could provide affordable depth. His market value is expected to be around $7–10 million annually, making him a reasonable option for a team looking to maximize its spending.

If Kinlaw is open to a reunion, he could find himself back in a familiar scheme where he originally developed as a pro. This time, however, he would be joining as a more seasoned and durable player.

3. Defensive End Haason Reddick – A Veteran Pass-Rusher at a Discount?

One of the biggest names in free agency, Haason Reddick, had high expectations when he arrived in New York. Unfortunately, his tenure with the Jets was overshadowed by contract disputes and a disappointing 2024 season in which he recorded just one sack.

At 31 years old, Reddick is at a crossroads in his career. From 2020 to 2022, he was one of the league’s most dangerous pass-rushers, totaling 39.5 sacks and 13 forced fumbles over three seasons. While his production dipped in 2024, he still possesses the skill set to be a disruptive force off the edge.

San Francisco struggled to generate consistent pressure last season, making Reddick an intriguing target. If he’s willing to accept a short-term, prove-it deal, he could rejuvenate his career under Saleh’s defensive scheme.

With the 49ers already boasting a strong defensive core, adding Reddick on a discounted contract could be a low-risk, high-reward move. The lure of competing for a Super Bowl may also persuade him to join forces with Saleh once again.

Conclusion: A Defensive Overhaul with Familiar Faces?

Robert Saleh’s return to the 49ers presents an opportunity to reshape the defense using players he trusts. D.J. Reed could provide stability in the secondary, Javon Kinlaw could bolster the defensive line, and Haason Reddick could offer much-needed pass-rushing help.

San Francisco has the cap space and championship aspirations to attract top talent. If Saleh sees these former Jets as the missing pieces to a dominant defensive resurgence, don’t be surprised if they make their way to the Bay Area in 2025.