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The Atlanta Falcons announced late on Monday that it had completed an interview with San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh for his position as head coach.
The Falcons are the first of several interviews scheduled for Saleh, now that the 49ers’ season is over. He is also scheduled for an interview with the Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Saleh has spent the past four years as a 49ers defensive coordinator under coach Kyle Shanahan. Despite many serious injuries in his defense this year, including Nick Bosa, Richard Sherman, Solomon Thomas and others, the 49ers still managed to end the year as the fifth championship unit in total defense. They took fourth place in allowed yards and tied for seventh in races.
The interview with the Falcons was conducted virtually. Candidates from teams whose seasons have ended can interview in person, but Saleh’s discussions with the Falcons were conducted by video call.
The Falcons also interviewed Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy earlier this Monday, also virtually when the Chiefs are in the playoffs.