Saleh regrets comments on “signal stealing”: “I own the fact I used the wrong choice of words.”

Tensions flared between the San Francisco 49ers and Jacksonville Jaguars following a post-game exchange between defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and Jaguars head coach Liam Coen.

Why it matters: The incident highlights the competitive nature of the NFL, where even seemingly innocuous comments can escalate into heated confrontations. It also underscores the importance of communication in a high-stakes environment like professional football.

Saleh's remarks regarding "legal signal stealing" were intended as praise for the Jaguars' performance but were poorly articulated, leading to a misunderstanding that marred an otherwise commendable matchup.

• The 49ers suffered their first loss of the season against the Jaguars, falling 26-21 at Levi's Stadium.
• Saleh later acknowledged that he could have phrased his admiration more thoughtfully and expressed respect for Coen's coaching prowess.

What’s new: Following the game, tensions reached a boiling point during a brief altercation on the field, necessitating intervention from players, including Jaguars center Robert Hainsey, who restrained Coen.

• The lack of a customary handshake at midfield between Saleh and Coen further emphasized the unresolved tension stemming from the incident.

Yes, but: Despite the heated exchange, both coaches downplayed the confrontation afterward, framing it as an overreaction to a miscommunication.

• Kyle Shanahan, the head coach of the 49ers, described the situation as "much ado about nothing," suggesting that it should not overshadow the competitiveness of the matchup.

Between the lines: Saleh's intent was to compliment the Jaguars for their preparation and execution, acknowledging the extensive film study and preparation involved in their success.

• He stated, "I recognize the amount of hours that must be spent to be able to build formations and define every little indicator they can to give their players a chance to be in a successful position."

The big picture: This incident serves as a reminder of the intensity of NFL rivalries and the fine line coaches must navigate when discussing their opponents.

• As teams prepare for critical matchups throughout the season, maintaining professionalism and clear communication will be essential to avoid similar misunderstandings.

What’s next: Moving forward, both teams will likely focus on refining their strategies ahead of upcoming games, with the 49ers looking to bounce back from their first defeat and the Jaguars aiming to build on their victory.

• Saleh and Coen will need to ensure that their interactions remain respectful, especially as they face each other again in future seasons.

The bottom line: While the post-game altercation drew attention, it is ultimately a minor footnote in the larger narrative of an evolving NFL landscape where communication and respect among coaches are vital components of professional conduct.