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Robert Saleh Impressed By ‘violent' Malik Mustapha Before Safety's 49ers Return

Robert Saleh impressed by ‘violent' Malik Mustapha before safety's 49ers return originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

It hasn’t taken long for second-year safety Malik Mustapha to make an impression on 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.

Saleh, who returned to the 49ers this season after a stint as the New York Jets coach, says while he has only seen Mustapha on film and a short time in practice, he’s impressed.

“His tape from last year is pretty impressive for a rookie,” Saleh said Tuesday. “Violent, a violent, fast-trigger football player and I’ve only had a couple days with him now but he’s made of the right stuff. That’s for damn sure.”

Mustapha, who has missed the first five weeks of the season dealing with rehab from an ACL tear that happened in Week 18 of his 2024 NFL season, is getting ready to pick up where he left off.

The 23-year-old finished with 71 total tackles last season, tied for eighth-most among rookies, and was a full participant in San Francisco’s practice on Tuesday.

S Malik Mustapha was a full participant in 49ers practice as he returns after ACL surgery in January. When asked if he will still play with the same ferocity upon his return to action, he answered, "I didn't get surgery on my brain." He said he is ready to go.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) October 8, 2025

Mustapha had surgery on his knee in January and made his return to the field this week after the 49ers opened his 21-day practice window.

The 2024 fourth-round draft pick looks to make his season debut on Week 6 when San Francisco takes on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

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Robert Saleh Impressed By ‘violent' Malik Mustapha Before Safety's 49ers Return

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