NASHVILLE – Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has a deep understanding of Robert Saleh’s coaching style, having played two seasons under him with the San Francisco 49ers. After spending the 2023 season leading the Tennessee Titans in tackles and now competing against them as a member of the Houston Texans, Al-Shaair shared his perspective on Saleh’s new role as head coach of the Titans, highlighting why he believes the team will benefit from his leadership.
Al-Shaair experienced mixed feelings upon hearing the news of Saleh’s hiring.
“Happy for him, but I was like, golly,”
he said with a smile.
“Man, the division was already tough, and it just got a lot tougher. Coach Saleh is an amazing coach, an amazing person. And I think he landed in a great spot in Tennessee, because they have a great foundation, and the core guys that they have I think will love playing for him.”
Insight from Pro Bowl Week Conversations
While attending the Pro Bowl and NFL Honors in San Francisco last week ahead of Super Bowl LX, Al-Shaair reached out to Titans’ defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, a former teammate, to discuss Saleh’s influence. Their conversations throughout the week allowed Al-Shaair to reflect more deeply on how Saleh’s presence could transform players’ performances.
“I’m like, oh gosh, the player that Jeff already is without having a coach like Saleh, now being in that type of scheme,”
Al-Shaair explained.
“It’s going to help elevate his game even more, which is already tough to do – he is coming off a career high in sacks.”
Saleh’s Defensive Credentials and Player Relations
Al-Shaair first joined the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2019 and played under Saleh, who was the defensive coordinator at the time. Saleh’s coaching history includes multiple terms as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator before becoming the Jets’ head coach from 2021 to 2024. Throughout his NFL tenure, Saleh has consistently overseen highly ranked defenses, with his teams finishing in the top five in total defense five times and contributing to nine top-10 defenses overall.
Regarding Saleh’s connection with players, Al-Shaair emphasized the coach’s intellect and genuine care.
“I have so much respect for him,”
he said.
“He looked out for me so much during my time with San Francisco in the two years that he was there. I just have a ton of respect for him and the way he approaches the game, the way he is.”
What Sets Saleh Apart as a Leader
Al-Shaair painted a vivid picture of Saleh’s unique approach to coaching that blends intensity with empathy.
“He is methodical, poetic in the way he moves and talks,”
he said.
“He always has a story to tell you about something, and it always ties into exact situations and what you or the team is going through. Positive energy, high energy guy, a smile on his face all the time, but is super intense and you can respect that because you know he has the love for the game.”
Al-Shaair continued,
“He cares, you know he cares, and you know he knows what he is doing. I think if you mix passion and the brain and the knowledge he has for the game, you put those things together, a leader of men, and the way he knows how to relay the message, I think that is going to be something that is extremely good for the entire Titans organization.”
The Potential Impact of Saleh’s Arrival on the Titans
With Robert Saleh now leading the Titans, players like Jeffery Simmons are expected to thrive within his defensive schemes, potentially boosting the team’s overall performance. Al-Shaair’s insights underline that Saleh’s combination of strategic knowledge, player rapport, and leadership could be a catalyst for the Titans’ growth as they face a challenging AFC South division.
As Saleh settles into Tennessee, the organization is poised to leverage his strengths, building on the existing team foundation and fostering a culture that resonates with both players and fans. Titans’ prospects under his guidance carry a sense of cautious optimism, with the hope that his tenure will translate into greater competitive success.
