49ers' Renardo Green ready for starting role—with guidance from Robert Saleh

Renardo Green made an impact as a rookie for the San Francisco 49ers, stepping in as a starter when Charvarius Ward was unavailable last season. The young cornerback proved he could compete against the NFL's best, earning a 69.2 defensive grade and a 74.3 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus—the latter ranking highest among all 49ers defensive backs in 2024.

Green is set to start Week 1 across from Deommodore Lenoir when the 49ers visit the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. The 24-year-old is embracing the challenge, confident in his growth and preparation.

A key factor in Green's development this offseason has been the return of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who has helped the young cornerback sharpen his skills and process the game faster.

"He helped me clean up my eyes and put certain terminology in my head," Green said after Monday's practice. "So, when I'm out there processing things, that terminology is kicking into my head and it's helping me make more plays, and play faster, have more personality out there when it comes to just what we in before the snap, just everything."

Saleh, who helped shape the 49ers defense into a top-tier unit during his first stint with the team, has a track record of developing young talent. Green is eager to learn from him.

"Robert Saleh's a great coach, and anytime he can talk to me or tell me something, I just absorb it like a sponge as much as I can," Green added.

Green has also stepped into a leadership role in the defensive backs room, mentoring newcomers both in the classroom during film sessions and on the practice field during drills.

"Just trying to set a certain standard," Green said, emphasizing his commitment to raising the performance bar for the entire group.