The San Francisco 49ers' prospects on defense for the 2025 season already seem a fair bit brighter following the return of Robert Saleh of coordinator, but it will take several reinforcements on the personnel side for this group to return to the ranks of the best in the NFL next season.

Could the San Francisco 49ers bolster their defense around new coordinator Robert Saleh thanks to his New York Jets ties?

Following his dismissal as head coach of the New York Jets, Robert Saleh has wasted no time finding his next opportunity in the NFL. The former Jets leader has returned to the San Francisco 49ers, where he previously thrived as defensive coordinator.

In Round 1, the 49ers select LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell, who might be the best OT in the class. A glut of talent at other positions allows Campbell to slide all the way to them at the No. 11 overall pick.

After a disappointing 2024 campaign, the 49ers enter the offseason hopeful for redemption and have an opportunity to land an immediate difference maker at No. 11 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft.