By Ross Jackson
It was bound to happen. As the New Orleans Saints search for their next head coach, their 2024 interim coach could be on the move—either by choice or necessity.
Darren Rizzi is set to interview with the Saints for the full-time head coach position, but until the ink dries on a contract, he is free to explore other opportunities. The first alternative has already come calling.
Per Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football, the New York Jets have requested to interview Rizzi for their open head coaching position. Rizzi would be one of 14 coaches currently scheduled to visit the Jets.
This would be an intriguing opportunity for Rizzi should it come to fruition. The New Jersey native grew up mere miles away from Metlife Stadium, the home of the Jets and New York Giants.
A lot of signs are pointing to Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn potentially taking the head coach role with the Jets. But if the Saints were to land him, Rizzi could end up in the running.
Rizzi has received head coaching interviews in the past, including with the Saints in 2022 before they ultimately hired former coach Dennis Allen. One factor he previously lacked in those interviews was on-field experience. He now has that, having led New Orleans as interim head coach for the final eight games of the season—a benefit he highlighted during his end-of-year media availability.
“What I didn’t have was I didn’t have experience in coaching eight games on the sideline,” he said. “That’s what I didn’t have the last time I interviewed. The one thing I can say this go-around is, “Listen, I have some onfield experience in this league.’”
The long-time Saints special teams coordinator and assistant head coach will be a viable option for New Orleans. But not without competition, it seems.
