In 2003, Salave'a was signed by the San Diego Chargers and spent one season with the Chargers.
Washington Redskins
In 2004, Salave’a signed with the Washington Redskins. Playing primarily as a backup, Salave'a had a breakthrough year in 2004, registering 30 tackles and two sacks for the second-ranked Redskins defense. In 2005, he started 13 games and had 50 tackles, a half-sack, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, helping to lead the Redskins to their first playoff appearance of the decade.
Salave'a was released by the Redskins on August 28, 2007.
On December 16, 2010, Salave’a was named the defensive line coach at the University of Arizona. When Rich Rodriguez was hired as head coach at Arizona for the 2012 season, Salave'a was not retained.
Washington State
In 2012, Salave'a joined Washington State University as their defensive line coach under head coach Mike Leach. Salave’a was later promoted to assistant head coach and defensive line coach.
Oregon
In January 2017, Salave'a was hired as the associate head coach, defensive line coach and co-defensive coordinator at the University of Oregon under head coach Mario Cristobal.[3]
Miami
On January 7, 2022, Salave'a was hired as the associate head coach, run game coordinator and defensive line coach at the University of Miami following head coach Mario Cristobal.[4]
Personal life
Salave'a's older brother, Okland Salave'a, played football at Colorado from 1987 to 1989. Salave'a also has his own foundation—the Joe Salave'a foundation.