Tension on the Field: Discussion between Robert Saleh and Liam Coen after the Game
The rivalry between the 49ers and the Jaguars intensified after the game, with a confrontation between 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and Jaguars coach Liam Coen. Tension arose following Saleh’s comments about the Jaguars’ ability to “steal signals” legally, which led to a heated exchange on the field after Jacksonville’s 26-21 victory. Saleh and Coen, considered candidates for the Jaguars’ head coaching position, did not initially greet each other at the end of the game, but the situation quickly escalated. In a video captured by Action Sports Jax, Coen is heard shouting: “Keep my name out of your mouth. Keep my name out of your damn mouth”, to which Saleh responded, among other things: “I’m going to fuck your world up”. After Saleh and Coen left the field, Coen refused to provide details about the exchange, limiting himself to saying that it was not “a big deal” and that they would keep it between them. 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the situation, indicating that he tried to clarify Saleh’s comments on Friday, emphasizing that Saleh was praising the Jaguars. Shanahan downplayed the incident, stating that he was not concerned.Shanahan also downplayed the possibility that Saleh’s comments had bothered the Jaguars coaches, noting that it would not affect the game. Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen suggested Saleh’s comments may have motivated Coen, while 49ers defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos avoided offering details about the incident. Saleh had previously mentioned the Jaguars’ ability to “steal signals” in a press conference, describing their system as advanced and legal. Saleh also mentioned other coaches, such as Sean McVay and Kevin O’Connell, who are also good at obtaining signal information. Despite pre-game comments, the Jaguars secured the victory. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence downplayed the idea that sign stealing influenced the outcome, but did not deny it. Lawrence stated that the team uses everything possible to motivate themselves, but that in the end the important thing is to play and win the match.I don’t think you should be so sensitive about it, but it is what it is. I’m not too worried about it.
Kyle Shanahan
