Last week, Robert Saleh, the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, gained attention when he highlighted what he described as a “really sophisticated method for deciphering signals” while evaluating the Jacksonville Jaguars’ offensive strategies. Following a contentious postgame verbal exchange with Jaguars coach Liam Coen, who strongly disagreed with what seemed to be a suggestion of rule-bending, Saleh retracted his statements.
After the impolite discussion with Coen, Saleh explained that he simply intended to praise the Jaguars for their thorough preparation and skill in recognizing and responding to defensive play calls.
“Everything is fine,” Saleh stated on Tuesday. “What transpired on Sunday does not alter my perspective. I was genuinely attempting to pay a compliment, in my honest opinion. I acknowledge that I likely chose the wrong phrasing. Regardless of how you phrase it, they excel at positioning their players for success.”
In his initial remarks, Saleh moderated his language by noting that there is nothing unlawful about the Jaguars’ preparation and that it is a widespread practice in the NFL. Teams are, in fact, permitted to utilize broadcast footage and All-22 film to identify opponents’ signals and patterns. However, they are prohibited from filming signals from unauthorized locations, such as the sideline or press box.
“As coaches, we are constantly seeking an edge,” Saleh remarked. “They are aiming to gain a winning advantage, while we are attempting to negate that advantage. Everyone in the league is striving to explore every possible avenue. As a coach reviewing their tape, I recognized the extensive hours required to construct formations and identify every subtle indicator to provide their players with an opportunity to succeed. It is demanding.”
He further commented: “Every team engages in it, with varying degrees of success, and I was acknowledging their exceptional proficiency in this area. As I mentioned, Sunday’s events do not change that. I believe Liam is performing admirably. I genuinely do. It is evident that the team is adopting his persona. I hope they emerged from the game unscathed, and I wish them success for the remainder of the season. I regret not selecting a more appropriate choice of words, but my intention was always to commend that staff.”
The topic of signal decoding is a delicate matter in the football community, particularly after the controversy at Michigan, where the NCAA determined that the Wolverines had implemented a detailed advanced scouting operation to unlawfully identify opponents’ forthcoming play calls.
“Clearly, my word choice was inadequate,” Saleh admitted. “I mean, if I had used the term ‘film study,’ this discussion likely wouldn’t be taking place. However, I used ‘signal decoding,’ which is why I emphasized ‘legally’ so strongly — I was merely searching for the right term.”
Following the Jaguars’ victory over the 49ers on Sunday, Coen avoided shaking hands with Saleh and engaged in a verbal confrontation with the coordinator. Saleh could be heard on camera telling Coen that he intended to compliment him — a position he reiterated after the game.
“My intention was precisely as I stated, to express my belief that he is doing an excellent job, which I genuinely believe,” Saleh explained. “I simply wanted to inform him that I appreciate his approach to his responsibilities with his football team.”
Regarding the reason for his vulgar and aggressive response to Coen, Saleh stated, “I suppose everyone has a breaking point.”
